British Energy, the firm which runs two reactors at Heysham will respond to the Government's call for energy companies to put forward plans to operate the proposed new stations, which could come online in the next 20 years.

Chief executive Bill Coley said the Government's announcement last week that nuclear would play a key role in future energy policies was "good news for people in the UK".

It is expected the Government will look to build new power stations on the site of existing reactors, putting Heysham forward as a key contender.

Mr Coley said: "The company has established a dedicated team that
includes experts with experience in consenting, nuclear licensing, design, construction and operation of nuclear stations in the UK and worldwide.

"We are ready for new build and have the sites, people, skills and experience that are essential for its success."

In a statement, the company said it would "currently undertaking detailed assessments of its sites" to find the best potential candidates for new nuclear power stations.

The Heysham One reactor is due to be shut down in 2014 with the second reactor likely to close in 2023, although there is a suggestion the life of the reactor could be renewed.

However, it is expected British Energy's other sites at Sizewell in Suffolk, Somerset's Hinkley Point, Dungeness in Kent and Bradwell in Essex are likely to lead the way in any first phase of new
stations.

Mr Coley said he agreed with the Government that nuclear had to be part of a "balanced energy policy", including a focus on renewables, fossil fuels and energy efficiency.

He said: "Government and industry must now work together to ensure that any remaining public concerns are addressed, and to define the framework for a new generation of nuclear units that will provide safe, reliable and affordable electricity."

Last week, bosses at Springfields Fuels Ltd nuclear fuel manufacturing plant, which employs 1,500 people at Salwick, near Preston, said it would be also be looking to take advantage.

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