HUNDREDS of new jobs are coming to Wellington before the start of the New Year – and firms could even face difficulties hiring in 2017, says a local business leader.

Keith Wheatley, of Wellington Business Association, says about 500 jobs could be created at the new JD Wetherspoon pub, the new secure hospital at Westpark 26 and by the relocation of Taunton Deane Borough Council’s Direct Labour Operation to the business park. He added that if Hinkley Point C gets the go ahead in a few weeks’ time town firms may find it hard to recruit.

Mr Wheatley said: “Wetherspoon’s are just the most visible new employer, with about 60 jobs created in the new pub this month.

“But the secure hospital at Westpark 26 is only a few months away from opening with more than 200 jobs, ranging from doctors to support staff.”

He added that Taunton Deane’s Direct Labour Operation is expected to move to Westpark 26 by Christmas, re-locating 180 jobs from the old Taunton depot.

Both the town’s established manufacturers, Relyon and Swallowfield, have ‘Recruiting Now’ banners posted outside their factories and Wellington Motors is frequently looking for new staff.

Mr Wheatley said: “Back in the spring Ian Timms, the TDBC economic development manager, told a WBA meeting that Wellington was the fastest-growing location within the council boundaries.

“Anecdotally I hear of lots of smaller businesses expanding. Walking around the town centre lots of traders seem to have ‘Staff Wanted’ notices in their windows. If Hinkley Point C does get a go-ahead in the autumn, there’s a real possibility of some recruitment difficulties for local businesses in 2017.”