A new helicopter link between Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has been given the green light by Cornwall Councillors this morning (2/1).

The council's strategic planning committee has given its approval to plans for a heliport to be built on Jelbert Way in Penzance, which will be a base for flights to the islands of St Mary's and Tresco.

The project will be created with £2 million of private investment, including from Robert Dorrien-Smith, the owner of Tresco, and is hoped to be completed in early 2018.

Mr Dorrien-Smith said: “Naturally, we are delighted. Today’s decision marks the start of the project that we believe will bring about a revival for the islands and dramatic improvements for their residents, businesses and visitors.

“The volume – but also the content – of the public support demonstrates without a doubt the importance of this project to the future of tourism on Scilly, and in Cornwall as a whole. We want to take this opportunity to thank all those who shared often very personal reasons for supporting the reinstatement of this lifeline service.”

Penzance Heliport Ltd plans to use its new site, which will be next to a former heliport on Eastern Green to offer year-round flights to the island in new AW139 15-seater helicopters.

The former heliport operated flights to the island for 48 years, until October 2012, and currently the only connections are via the Scillonian ferry service or aeroplanes from Land's End, Newquay and Exeter.

West Cornwall MP Derek Thomas said: “I'm pleased the council has recognised the opportunity the investment of the heliport presents for west Cornwall and Scilly.

“We are now seeing significant investment in and around Penzance and the addition of a new helicopter service is further evidence of the confidence people have in the future prospects of west Cornwall.”

Penzance town councillor Dick Cliffe added: “This is a strategically important development for the Isles of Scilly and it provides important economic benefits for Penzance.

“The approval of Penzance Heliport is a shot in the arm for Penzance, and is potentially transformational for the Isles of Scilly.”