A EUROPEAN scientific project worth £1bn could be developed in Yorkshire, providing a huge economic boost to the region.

Yorkshire Forward is joining three of the region's leading universities - Leeds, York and Sheffield (the White Rose Consortium) in a bid to host the world's largest neutron scattering research facility.

A 220-hectare site at the former Burn airfield near Selby, North Yorkshire, has been selected as a potential site for the project called the European Spallation Source (ESS).

The ESS project, which has been developed by leading European scientists over the last decade, will be a major centre for the study of physics, chemistry, biology, materials, earth and engineering sciences and would put the region firmly on the world science map.

If the bid to host the site in Yorkshire is accepted, it is expected that the Yorkshire ESS project (YESS) would generate 2,000 to 3,000 local jobs in the construction phase and throughout its operation would employ about 1,000 scientists, technicians and support staff.

The region would also benefit from the knock-on effect of visitors to the area from around the world.

Yorkshire Forward chairman Graham Hall said: "The potential benefits for the region in winning this project cannot be underestimated in terms of job creation, economic growth and prestige.

"Yorkshire's universities are world-leaders in their fields and this project recognises the quality of the science base in the North.

"The fact that Yorkshire is able to provide a suitable site proves we are the most attractive region for inward investment opportunities and business growth in the country."