Developers say a skyscraper development in Newhaven will create more than 400 jobs if it is approved by planners.

Brighton-based Sign of Four has asked Lewes District Council to approve its £10 million scheme to build an 18-storey, mixed-use scheme on the south side of Bridge Street in Newhaven.

The proposal includes 22 new homes, together with offices, shops and restaurants.

In an economic impact report to the council, Sign of Four says more than half the new posts would be made available by firms attracted to Newhaven by the scheme.

Most would be office-based, while others would be in shops and restaurants.

There would also be employment for some 300 construction workers during the building programme.

Sign of Four also estimated the construction and occupation of the building would attract inward investment to the town of £74 million during the first ten years of the scheme.

Director Tony Smith said: "This scheme offers great economic opportunities.

"Fully-occupied, the building would attract a significant new community to the town centre, bringing with it new commercial activity and prosperity by providing employment opportunities for hundreds and 80 more residents."

He said there would be a lasting and positive change to the image of Newhaven.

Friday March 14 2003