A major arts organisation could help create jobs after relocating to Sussex.

The Regional Arts Council, which funds artists and arts organisations in the South, plans to move its offices to Brighton.

The decision is being hailed as another example of how major corporations and organisations are favouring the county.

Many believe the presence of such a prominent organisation will attract more companies to the area and create further jobs.

The move is part of a restructuring process arising from the amalgamation of two former regional arts boards, Southern Arts and South-East Arts.

A combined office will allow the organisation to provide better services and minimise accommodation and administration costs.

This will enable more direct funding to be allocated to artists and arts groups across the region.

The exact location of the new office has yet to be confirmed.

Deborah Grubb, chairwoman of the Regional Arts Council, said: "The choice of Brighton as the location for the regional office gives us the opportunity to be embedded in a vibrant, creative economy with excellent cross-regional links.

"We are also planning to have a presence in Hampshire, Kent and the Thames Valley for our clients to continue personal contact with staff.

"Where we are located is less important than how we deliver our high standard of service.

"The Chancellor of the Exchequer has allocated an extra £75 million for the arts in his spending review, which is a top level seal of approval on the radical cost-cutting reorganisation the Arts Council has undertaken to put more money back into the arts."

Brighton and Hove City Council welcomed the news.

A spokesman said: "It is a coup for Brighton and Hove and reflects the cultural importance of the city to the region.

"Having such a prestigious organisation here will hopefully have spin-off benefits in terms of helping attract other companies and creating more jobs."