A new nuclear power plant at Dungeness could be up and running by 2020, British Energy and government officials told a public meeting.

The Dungeness B reactor, which at present generates 30 per cent of the South East’s electricity, is set to shut down in 2018, and owner British Energy has earmarked the Romney Marsh site as a strong contender for a new reactor.

But with eight other sites throughout the country to choose from, the company could opt to build its new power stations elsewhere.

Dungeness B is the biggest employer in Romney Marsh, with more than 500 permanent staff at the power plant as well as 200 people employed by contractors.

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At last night’s meeting in nearby Lydd, Matt Taylor from the department for business joined British Energy representatives to set out a potential timetable for a Dungeness C reactor.

If Dungeness is chosen for new-build, British Energy’s area planning chief Ian Bryant said an application could be submitted by 2010. Mr Taylor said he thought 2020 was the likeliest date for any new nucear power station to come on stream.

In a question-and-answer session following the presentations, the audience of residents and councillors proved strongly in favour of a new reactor.

Carole Waters, ward member for New Romney on Shepway District council said: "We would totally welcome a new build at Dungeness. What can the community do to convince British Energy that this is the right place?"

Plant manager Gareth Brett said that although the company has not chosen its new- build sites, Dungeness has an advantage because it is located in the south, where there is a higher demand for electricity

Last month, British Energy confirmed that it was in takeover talks, with rumoured buyer including a number of foriegn energy firms including EDF of France and RWE Npower of Germany.

* The Dungeness A site ceased generating power in 2006. The current Dungeness B site is due to stay open until 2018.