Knutsford-based engineering group Amec has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).

Clive White, president of Amec’s Clean Energy Europe division, said: “This is the first stage in what we hope will be a long-term relationship between British and Chinese companies in the field of nuclear energy.

“This agreement will strengthen the co-operation between Amec and CNNC across the nuclear sector. We will work together on new-build programmes, both in the UK and internationally, and also on planning and strategy development for decommissioning nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities in China under the guidance of the Chinese government.

“I am confident that our complementary skills and expertise will bring benefits for both parties and play a key role in the development of the nuclear industry in the UK, China and in international markets.”

Last year, Amec announced that it plans to create 300 new jobs in its Clean Energy Europe division, which has operations in Knutsford and Birchwood.