BOSSES at the region's only nuclear power station yesterday presented its case for the development of a replacement plant, safeguarding hundreds of jobs and creating up to 3,000 more during construction.

Mark Treasure, plant manager at Hartlepool Nuclear Power Station, spoke of the possibilities of building a new generation power station on the site, which could extend the plant's life for another 60 years.

The proposed development, which would mean an investment of between £1bn and £2bn by plant owner British Energy, would take up to six years to build, and during that time employ between 1,500 and 3,000 staff in construction.

The development of a new plant would also safeguard the jobs of the 600 staff employed at the power station - originally due to be decommissioned in 2014 - for another 60 years.

Mr Treasure mentioned a recent report commissioned by the Government that listed 14 suitable sites around the UK for new nuclear power plants, based on the criteria that existing nuclear power stations were the most suitable for development.

"Hartlepool was placed at number six on the list," he said.

Hartlepool Nuclear Power Station is one of eight sites across the UK owned by British Energy. It was commissioned in the mid-Eighties and supplies about three per cent of the UK's energy needs. It has a turnover of about £225m. Mr Treasure put his case for the future of nuclear power at an energy event organised by Tees Valley Engineering Partner and held at Hartlepool Historic Quay.

Representatives from companies and organisations across the Tees Valley, including James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North-East Chamber of Commerce, attended the Powering Ahead 2007 event, which gave an insight into how the region is developing as a "high-quality energy hub".