BUSINESS boss Mike Damms has welcomed the announcement that a new nuclear power plant will be built as good for Britain and East Lancashire firms.

Mike Damms spoke out after Energy Secretary Ed Davey confirmed he had given the go-ahead for the UK's first atomic generating station in a generation.

France's EDF Energy will lead a consortium, which includes Chinese investors, to build the Hinkley Point C plant in Somerset.

East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce chief executive Mr Damms said: “After months of uncertainty, British business will be pleased that negotiations for the UK's first new nuclear power plant in decades have been successfully concluded.

“Nuclear power is a critical part of the UK's future energy infrastructure mix, and will help ensure our businesses have access to secure sources of energy in the years ahead.

“Britain must adopt a comprehensive, long-term strategy to guarantee the security of our energy.

“As a leading international manufacturing area, East Lancashire already has technologies and skills in nuclear, renewables and traditional generation. There is now the contentious issue of Shale Oil to consider.”