THE West Somerset area could be boosted by a double jobs boom as plans are unveiled to build TWO nuclear reactors at Hinkley Point.

The West Somerset County Gazette has reported how if plans are approved to build a new reactor at Hinkley, there could be a peak of 2,000 short-term jobs plus 350 permanent posts.

But that was based on the model of a one-reactor plant in Normandy, France. Now energy giant EDF says it plans to build two new reactors.

That could mean hundreds more permanent posts at Hinkley plus potentially 4,000 short-term positions if the two new reactors are built at the same time.

The announcement came as it was revealed the board of British Energy, which owns Hinkley B, has recommended approval to its shareholders of a £12.5billion takeover bid by EDF.

Nigel Cann, station director of Hinkley Point B, said: "It's potentially great news. It would bring together two superb nuclear operators and will enable us to move ahead with developing new nuclear power stations.”

Bridgwater MP Ian Liddell-Grainger said: “This news creates the potential for a lot more jobs and a lot more prosperity for the area.”

Work on a new Hinkley reactor could begin in 2012, but any plans for new nuclear build will have to get government support and backing from local authorities.

Jim Duffy, coordinator for pressure group Stop Hinkley, will be among the opponents of any new nuclear build.

He said two new reactors would be a blot on the landscape and questioned the need for new nuclear stations. “It's a sad day,” he added of last week's announcement.