Over 820 new permanent jobs have been created in East Sussex as a result of funding from East Sussex County Council and the Government’s Regional Growth Fund.

Since February 2014, some £5.8million in grants and loans has been provided for growing businesses in the county through a business support programme delivered by Locate East Sussex.

This financial support has been matched by over £24.8million from local companies, representing a total boost of £30.7million to the county’s economy.

Financed by a partnership of East Sussex district and borough councils and East Sussex County Council, Locate East Sussex was formed in 2013 to promote economy growth in the county. Since then, 828 permanent jobs have been created as a result of its funding assistance.

Philip Johnson, Director of Locate East Sussex, said: “As a result of funding from East Sussex County Council and the Government’s Regional Growth Fund, hundreds of new jobs have been created in East Sussex and many businesses have been able to fulfil their growth plans, all contributing to our county’s thriving economy.

“More and more firms are realising this is a fantastic place to do business, with so much to offer from a wide range of affordable commercial property to excellent transport links and an exceptional quality of life.”

Among the companies to recently benefit from support from Locate East Sussex are Focus S B, a manufacturer of designer electrical accessories, Urban Jump, a new trampoline and activity centre in Heathfield and men’s online retailer Dobells in Eastbourne.

Councillor Rupert Simmons, lead member for economy at East Sussex County Council said: “We’re delighted that our programme of investment, backed by the Regional Growth Fund, is having a real impact, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. We are currently recorded as being in the top 10 Counties in the Country for economic growth.

“We’ll continue to work with strategic partners across the county to build on this success – benefitting local people and businesses alike.”