WARRINGTON fended off competition from Paris, Rome and London to be chosen as the latest site for a nuclear and waste management company looking to 'catapult' growth.

Kurion has eight facilities worldwide but the move to Birchwood's Cinnamon Park is its first European site, with current headquarters mapped in nations across the globe including America and Japan.

The company has been recognised for its work dealing with robotic systems, separation technologies and stabilisation - with the town tipped to ensure further development.

"With there being so much nuclear work going on now in locations close to here, Warrington made the most sense," said senior vice president of European operations, Phil Ohl, who made the move from Seattle to set up camp at his new office.

"Warrington is certainly becoming a powerhouse in nuclear business.

"All our clients are right here and I predict a catapult in growth - we are coming with great products to sell and looking to sell to the ultimate customer."

Previously filling the role of chief operating officer, Mr Ohl admits the pressures are greater in his latest position, yet ever more rewarding.

"I used to have a lot of staff working for me so there was a lot more directing but now, in Europe, it is just me and so I have to do a lot more of my own stuff - the sales pressure is terrific," he said.

"We are a growth company, the things that we are selling is what the customers want, and with that it makes it both professionally and personally rewarding."

Mr Ohl now gears up for a trip to Berlin for a nuclear decommissioning summit before returning to the town to put plans into motion.

"I am finding that USA technologies are welcome here," he added.

"In the next 12-15 months we are going to be focusing on contracts at Sellafield, Magnox, as well ones at sites in France and Italy.

"Though, with the facilities we have her and the quality employees, it makes the work a lot easier to do."