Jobs hope as airport link road approved

The Finningley and Rossington Regeneration Route Scheme is expected to pave the way for thousands of new jobs and homes in Doncaster and will cut journey times to the airport from Sheffield to 25 minutes.

Mayor of Doncaster Peter Davies said: “This decision is tremendous news for Doncaster and the region. 2012 is becoming a monumental year for enhancing the economic prospects of Doncaster.

“Doncaster is ambitious, forward thinking and one of the hottest places in the UK for new investment. All of this is testament to our vision and our ability to work with private and public sector partners to deliver.”

Daniel Fell, deputy chief executive officer at Doncaster Chamber, said the project was critical for the future of Doncaster and the wider regional economy and would significantly enhance the airport’s growth potential.

“This will help the area’s importers and exporters and encourage more firms to trade internationally,” he said.

“The road will also open up acres of land for development and inward investment.”

Steve Gill, director of Doncaster Sheffield Airport, said the improved access would help to attract more passengers.

“This will help us provide a thriving business hub in and around the airport, bringing with it economic benefits and job opportunities,” he said.

A dual carriageway will lead from the M18 towards Rossington and support the town’s new inland port. The link will continue to the A638 at Parrot’s Corner and a direct connection will be provided into Rossington.

The project is funded by £18m from the Regional Growth Fund and £2m from the Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership.

Planning permission will be formally permitted once minor technical matters are resolved. Work should begin this summer and the road is expected to be fully open in 2014.