Volunteers will get a new home in a former school building thanks to Government grant of almost £750,000.

The money will be used to refurbish Jackson Hall in Hastings for use as a hub for local groups, clubs and social enterprises through Hastings Voluntary Action.

Peter Pragnell, leader of Hastings Borough Council, said: “We are very pleased indeed that we are able provide this facility and thanks to this grant we will be able to make it a modern, accessible, energy-efficient building.

“We are also pleased to be able to help community groups and I look forward to visiting the new offices.”

Work is expected to start next year and be completed by 2011.