Costain has announced, following EDF's statement, and subject to a final investment decision by EDF and the signing of the contract, it will become a major contract partner in the construction of the new Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset.

Costain will provide the design and delivery of the water cooling systems for the nuclear power station.

Costain will design and construct three marine tunnels, around 11km in total length and each one approximately seven metres in diameter, to take in cooling water from the Severn Estuary for the nuclear reactor before it is cleansed, recycled and returned.

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It is expected that work will commence as soon as possible following the final investment decision.

Andrew Wyllie, Chief Executive of Costain, commented: "We are delighted that Costain will play a key role in delivering the secure, low carbon energy the UK needs for the future through our role as a Tier One contractor in the Hinkley Point C project.

"The project will also help ensure Costain can play its part in building the skills of the UK and showcasing them to the world in a way which will help us to compete for other such contracts.

"We estimate that this contract will lead to the creation of hundreds of new jobs at Costain alone, including apprentices, specialist technical and engineering roles and programme management."

(CD/JP)