LANDLORDS in Burnham and Highbridge could see a surge of property interest thanks to the Hinkley power station development, according to property experts.

Last week, the government announced it was to guarantee £2bn of investment for the Hinkley Point C nuclear plant, giving the project a timely boost and bringing the development a step closer.

Now, estate agents and property developers are anticipating a rise in the value and interest of homes in Burnham and Burnham and Highbridge, with Hinkley workers looking for an alternative to living in Bridgwater.

They are also expecting renewed interest in property from retirees and those looking at alternative options for investing their savings.

Matthew Watkins, manager of Saxons Estate Agents in Burnham, said the plant would have a "positive impact" on the town.

"I think there is definite potential for more employment and it's good news for landlords.

"When Morrisons depot was being built along the M5 we saw a surge in property interest in Burnham with workers looking for an alternative place to live to Bridgwater.

"They're happy to be a bit further afield.

"We may see a big surge in interest, with house prices increasing, which will have a positive effect on the area."

Andrew, a negotiator from Abbott and Frost estate agents, also in Burnham, believes the town will be affected with house prices, but not as much as other areas.

"We've had a large house price increase in the last 18 months anyway.

"Although it is not great for first time buyers, it will have a positive effect on Burnham, although the area won't be as affected as Bridgwater and Taunton.

"What we need is a ferry from Burnham jetty to Hinkley Point."

The government guarantee was announced by chancellor George Osborne during a visit to China last week, with the Chinese set to invest £2bn in the station, which would be Britain’s first new nuclear plant for 20 years, providing power for about 60 years.

Town centre manager, Bev Milner Simonds, welcomed the news.

She said: "The development of the infrastructure around Hinkley and the build itself will have an impact on Burnham.

"I hope that local businesses will position themselves to exploit this through the local supply chain and through their marketing strategies to those working there.

"There is a tremendous opportunity for local people to gain the skills required to join the build or operating phase through the wide variety of training courses being subsidised.

"For local residents we may see an increase in the quality and breadth of the local retail offer, benefit from the infrastructure investment and also improvements to the public realm locally."

Andrea Pilgrim, sales director at Barratt Homes, added: "The nuclear power station project will provide renewed focus for property in the area and a good rental property makes a compelling alternative investment that can not only offer a monthly rental income but also provide the investor with a capital growth and realise a potential return if and when they choose to sell.”