THE company behind the £250m Circuit of Wales in Ebbw Vale said up to 12,000 jobs could be created as a result of the development.

They also say they want between 80-90 per cent of that workforce to be from Blaenau Gwent and the surrounding areas.

The construction of the site would create around 3,000 jobs, while the on going jobs at the site are predicted to number between 4,000-9,000.

Previously, it was thought the development would create up to 9,000 jobs in total.

The proposed £250m development represents the biggest investment in theUK automotive sector in more than half a century, and bosses say the expect the track will attract around 750,000 visitors each year.

Jonathan Jones, head of recruitment and training for Circuit of Wales, was born and bred in Ebbw Vale, and knows what an impact those jobs would have in Blaenau Gwent, which is constantly grappling with some of the worst employment statistics in Wales.

He said: “It will have a massive socio-economic impact.

There will be a job for every level of ability, fromcleaners and waiting staff to high level chefs and linguists. We are working with Universities and colleges across South Wales and will be offering top level apprenticeships.

“The big message is, it does not matter what your ability level is. There will be something for you.” Mr Jones added he hopes the project will return Ebbw Vale to the glory days in the early 1970s.

The latest images show 830 acres of Blaenau Gwent’s valleys transformed into a 3.5 mile track, a low carbon technology park, an international karting track, a 4x4 circuit and a Motocross track, a number of high end industrial units and retail, hotel and leisure facilities.

It will also be home to a leading motor sports race academy and training facility to develop young Welsh, British and European elite riders and drivers.

Mr Jones added: “The track is designed to take any level of motorsport. It is a world class facility which could take Formula One.”

A planning application has been submitted to Blaenau Gwent council, and a decision is expected within the next two weeks.