WEST Somerset could be in line for a serious cash injection to help nurse it out of recession and boost job opportunities.

A raft of recession-busting measures was unveiled at a meeting of West Somerset Council’s cabinet this week, which included:

* Improving job opportunities for young people.

* Encouraging young people to seek employment and enterprise opportunities.

* Improving access to skills and training.

* Providing employment for the long-term unemployed.

* Supporting business and enterprise.

The council revealed how it intends to use some of the £1.84m Working Neighbourhood Fund secured from central Government to tackle high levels of worklessness.

Corinne Matthews, the council’s economic regeneration officer who helped draw up the plans, also said the economic opportunities offered by the proposed development of Hinkley Point “should not be underestimated”.

The council will pump £246,000 into the scheme and hopes to lever in £500,000 of external funding to help the project take off.

Ms Matthews said: “It’s important that young entrepreneurs and new enterprise is encouraged in West Somerset. The initiatives will improve training and employment opportunities, and help those looking to set up businesses, particularly for young people.

“Regeneration proposals will help our town centres and aim to help all sectors of local industry. The plan is to nurture new businesses and help existing firms grow.

“We have developed very good partnerships and our economic strategy pinpoints where assistance can help businesses through the current economic downturn, as well as stimulate enterprise so that long-term growth is sustained.”

SEE this week's West Somerset County Gazette for a full list of schemes proposed by the council.