Rolls-Royce to create 6,000 UK jobs to build 16 mini nuclear power stations

A group led by Rolls-Royce has pledged to create 6,000 regional UK jobs within the next five years under plans to build 16 mini nuclear power stations.

These components would then be sent on to existing nuclear sites around the country for rapid assembly.

The plans come at a crucial time for the UK amid rising unemployment caused by the pandemic.

They could also help revive the fortunes of the engine maker Rolls-Royce, which is slashing 9,000 jobs to offset the hit from coronavirus, around two-thirds of them in the UK.

As well as the potential to create 6,000 jobs by 2025, the nuclear power plant plans could deliver a further 34,000 roles in 15 years, most of which would be high value manufacturing jobs.

The consortium – which also includes National Nuclear Laboratory and the construction company Laing O’Rourke – said it is hoping to get a “clear commitment” from the government for the flat-packed power station project.