BLACKBURN-based engineering company Assystem have today confirmed a new contract which they hope will create 100 new jobs.

The Haslington Road based firm, the world’s second largest nuclear engineering company, will now be contracted to work on the construction of Hinckley Point C nuclear power station with jobs created across advanced engineering, site engineering, commissioning, quality assurance and control.

There will also be development opportunities for new graduates and apprenticeships.

Assystem managing director Peter Higton said: “We are delighted to be providing engineering support to the Hinkley Point C project through this new agreement, bringing insight and expertise gained from some of the world’s highest profile nuclear new build programmes.

“The development of new nuclear power at Hinkley Point C is an exciting project that represents the next chapter of nuclear power in the UK.

“The development of Hinkley Point C will be vital in delivering low carbon electricity for generations to come, as well as creating jobs here in the North-West and across the whole of the UK and its success is pivotal for further programmes to develop, such as Sizewell C.”

The Blackburn company is one of hundreds of North West suppliers to be contracted to work on the Hinckley Point C project which has already created 350 jobs for Warrington based Bilfinger.

Hinkley Point C engineering director Catherine Back said: “Access to the best expertise, innovation and experience through our agreement with Assystem will be invaluable in helping us deliver Hinkley Point C.

“The jobs and training opportunities being delivered by this new agreement show we are delivering in our promise to build Britain’s industrial capability and to create new jobs and skills for the future.

“Development of a near identical power station at Sizewell C will bring further opportunities for our extensive and experienced British supply chain.”