The new road will ease congestion around the M1

A major road scheme is expected to attract up to 10,000 jobs to the area.

The �33m Mansfield and Ashfield Regeneration Route will create a road link to Mansfield between Pleasley and Rainworth, easing travel links with the M1 and the A1.

The aim is to open-up the heart of the former Nottinghamshire coalfield to encourage new investment and thousands of jobs.

The county council scheme also aims to cut traffic congestion and improve road safety by diverting vehicles away from residential streets.

In 2002, a planning inspector ruled against residents who campaigned against a link road which formed part of the scheme.

They said it would have a damaging effect on the community, but the inspector ruled the overall benefits outweighed their objections.