PLANS for a third nuclear power station in Somerset have taken a major leap forward today after the Government named Hinkley Point on a list of suitable sites for new nuclear plants.

Hinkley was one of eight sites across the UK deemed suitable for new nuclear by 2025.

The announcement formed part of the Government’s Energy National Policy Statements, which will be voted on by MPs.

Charles Hendry, Energy Minister, said: “Around a quarter of the UK’s generating capacity is due to close by the end of this decade.

"We need to replace this with secure, low carbon, affordable energy.

“This will require over £100billion worth of investment in electricity generation alone.

"This means twice as much investment in energy infrastructure in this decade as was achieved in the last decade.”

A spokesman for EDF Energy, the firm behind the proposed Hinkley Point C station, said: “This is a key step in the planning process for all types of energy infrastructure. ‪ “We now look forward to the Parliamentary vote to ratify the NPSs before summer recess.”

The spokesman said new nuclear power stations at Hinkley Point and Sizewell would “drive growth in jobs, rejuvenate the UK supply chain and help drive economic recovery.”

The spokesman added: “We are delighted that Hinkley Point and Sizewell are both named in the NPS. These sites are our priority for our new nuclear build project and we are progressing with our plans to build twin EPR reactors at each site.”