THE £40 million Ministry of Defence cyber security base earmarked for Corsham has been welcomed by civic leaders for the potential prosperity it would bring.

Last week Defence Secretary Michael Fallon announced that Corsham MoD is the preferred location for a new Cyber Security Operations Centre (CSOC) which would use state-of-the-art-defensive cyber facilities to secure defence networks and fend off cyber threats.

This announcement was wholeheartedly supported by MP for Corsham Michelle Donelan, the town council and the town’s chamber of commerce in terms of job creation, investment and an influx of people to the town.

“The CSOC will further strengthen the UK’s cyber defences and importantly will be a huge high-technology jobs boost for our area,” said Ms Donelan.

“It is important that Corsham capitalises on the new jobs and investment that will be coming; this further strengthens our case for a new station, improved high street and more infrastructure.

“I will be working with the government and local councils to ensure we make the most of this significant boost for the town.”

As the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) in November outlined, the government will invest £1.9 billion over the next five years in protecting the UK from cyber-attacks and developing our sovereign capabilities in cyber space.

Corsham Town Council chief executive, David Martin, said: “This is really great for local jobs and employment and to be part of such an important part of the country’s national security.

“We are very pleased with this announcement. All sorts of important digital matters take place in Corsham. With the military already here it fits in with what we already have.

“The MoD is the town’s biggest employer. I am proud that Corsham has been chosen for such a key role.”

The £40 million investment in the CSOC is part of the wider government plan and will transform the MoD’s operational cyber security capabilities.

President of the town’s chamber of commerce, Sue Stockley, said: “It is fantastic news and another string to Corsham’s bow. We are becoming a specialist for certain areas and this ties in with that brilliantly."

“Would it not be lovely to have people coming to Corsham to live and work here and with us about to expand our housing that could happen.”

“Britain is a world leader in cyber security but with growing threats this new Operations Centre will ensure that our Armed Forces continue to operate securely,” said the defence secretary.

“Our increasing defence budget means that we can stay ahead of our adversaries in cyberspace while also investing in conventional capabilities.”

A timescale for when the project will begin has yet to be announced.