MORE than 1,000 jobs will be created thanks to a multi-million pound funding boost from central Government.

Two projects have been earmarked for the £13.2 million allocated to Sussex.

East Sussex County Council will receive £8.2 million for the East Sussex Strategic Growth Project, which will create new employment developments in areas including Bexhill and Eastbourne.

The funding is expected to result in an extra £13 million of private sector investment and will create around 35,000 square metres of new business floor space for firms looking to relocate.

The scheme will include new developments at Sovereign Harbour business park in Eastbourne and the North East Bexhill Innovation Park.

A further £5 million has been granted towards the £44 million redevelopment of the Devonshire Park area in Eastbourne, including a new conference complex.

County council leader Keith Glazier said: “This is fantastic news for the county and will allow us to generate a significant number of new jobs and provide a welcome boost to our economy.

“The funding will allow us to provide bespoke, state-of-the-art new employment space in key growth areas, allowing us to meet the ambitions of companies looking to expand or relocate.”

Councillor David Tutt, leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, said: “This is welcome news and testament to the regional significance and importance of the Devonshire Quarter transformation which is well under way.

“This project will put Eastbourne on the map as a top cultural, sporting and conferencing destination and is crucial to our long-term prosperity while offering first class facilities for residents and visitors alike.”

This latest award of Local Growth Funding has been secured by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership.

Chairman Christian Brodie said: “This settlement is a huge boost for the economy in East Sussex.

“We have secured funding to channel significant investment into the projects, which are of highest priority to our businesses and local areas.”

Vice-chairman Graham Peters said: “This investment enables us to drive forward our shared growth agenda delivering economic growth and regenerating and revitalising communities with new jobs, facilitating housing, improving connectivity and boosting skills.

“The additional funding that will be leveraged into the South East as a result of these investments is testament to the continued success of our area.”

Projects previously awarded this funding include schemes to improve cycling and walking infrastructure in Bexhill and Hastings, Eastbourne, Newhaven and south Wealden.