PLANS to build a £100-million super port on the South Humber Bank could soon become a reality.

A decision, which will determine the fate of the project, is set to be made in August.

Port company Able UK has ambitious plans to bring jobs to the region, but must await the verdict of North Lincolnshire Council.

Neil Etherington, group development director at Able UK, said: "We anticipate having a positive decision before the end of the summer which will send a very positive message out to the market place saying we're open for business.

"We should be able to consolidate more enquiries for local permission.

"It will complement the area by providing more ports for the Humber, which is already Britain's busiest trading estuary."

The development would cover 1,800 acres and have deep water river frontage for 2.5 miles. It is hoped this would provide a unique opportunity for port-related activity and development.

Council leader Mark Kirk has previously stated there is great potential on the Humber bank, but development should be carefully considered.

He said: "Able UK is one of our biggest applications. "What we need to do is to do is talk to other parties such as the Environment Agency and Natural England so we can sort out some of the issues that need addressing."

All being well, the super port could boost the local economy.

Ian Kelly, chief executive of Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce, said: "The chamber would welcome any initiative which promotes growth and prosperity across the Humber, especially if it involves large numbers of new jobs.

"Obviously we must await the outcome of the planning process, but we hope planners will look favourably on anything which expands the commercial opportunities and job prospects in the region."

If given the go ahead, the deep water port could sit alongside the £400-million marine energy park recently announced by Able UK.

The port would help service increased sea traffic brought by the growing renewable energy sector and thousands of jobs could be created.