A FOOD delivery business has announced plans for more than 300 new contracted courier jobs in the city.

Just Eat is expanding its hub in Brighton and Hove over the coming months, as part of its new UK worker model for couriers.

All couriers contracted through the new model will be entitled to hourly pay and be paid the minimum or living wage, as well as pension contributions and certain statutory benefits, including holiday pay and sick pay.

There will be a mix of full-time, part-time and zero hour jobs, and workers will be provided with clothing and equipment to use for deliveries.

Just Eat said there will also be an option to operate from a central hub, where couriers can take breaks.

Many companies which are heavily reliant on the gig economy have come under close scrutiny in recent years.

Critics say the model allows businesses to escape providing benefits such as sick pay or holiday entitlement to couriers, who are classed as self-employed contractors.

However, the system’s proponents say it offers workers the flexibility of being self-employed, allowing them to work when they want.

Brighton is the fourth city in the UK to be offered the new model by Just Eat, following its launch in London, Birmingham and Liverpool.

The move has already created almost 3,000 jobs and will continue to be rolled out to further cities.