The green light for construction at Sizewell C will have a major impact on the local economy, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce says.

Last month's triggering of a Development Consent Order (DCO) for the new nuclear power plant has prompted 70 more businesses to sign up to the Sizewell C supply chain - bringing the total number to 2650.

The milestone is significant for the Suffolk business community - which can capitalise on the "vast" potential that will unfold, it said.

The chamber is striving to maximise the economic benefits for the county through its Sizewell C Supply Chain Team.

Financial backing for the multi-billion pound scheme still needs to be firmed up but last month the government upped its investment to £2.5bn.

Several chamber members were already reaping the rewards by securing contracts and actively participating in the project, it said.

Sizewell C Supply Chain manager Ashley Shorey-Mills said there was already a sizeable project commitment to the region.

‘’This marks an exciting time for the business community of Suffolk, and the wider region," he said.

"Through the £4.4bn commitment to the supply chain, business of all shapes and sizes will see opportunity on their doorstep, and our role at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is to help maximise and create a sustainable legacy, supporting those who wish to take part in this nationally significant project.’’

Getting the green light for works to begin "should breed confidence and optimism", he said.

‘’The East coast is the leading the way in the UK’s Energy secure future,’’ he added.

Businesses have the opportunity to secure lucrative contracts over a wide range of areas such as civil engineering, architectural design, electrical and mechanical works, and site preparation.

This should stimulate growth in local manufacturing and distribution sectors, he said, as well as boosting jobs..

As well as direct opportunities, there were also openings in areas such as transportation, accommodation, catering, and waste management, he said.

The chamber is encouraging all local businesses to actively engage in the Sizewell C Supply Chain.