Kings House on Hove seafront is set to be sold off for £9million in a council cost-cutting move.

Brighton and Hove City Council has agreed to market the grade II listed building in Grand Avenue, Hove, as it looks to save money in the face of government cuts.

The local authority will then invest £16 million in refurbishing Hove Town Hall so it can be used as a place to house councillors and public sector workers.

Leo Littman, the council’s lead member for finance said: “This proposal to move offices will help modernise the council and allow us to better serve the needs of the community. It will allow us to deliver services more efficiently and make better use of our buildings.

“Combining this move with the more effective use of technology it will save money.

“Not only will this benefit the people of the city; it will give our staff extra flexibility; allowing them to achieve a better work/life balance. It will also help to improve energy efficiency.”

A new council report on the matter is being discussed at the Policy and Resources committee next week.

It is estimated the changes could save approximately £700,000 per year in running costs.

If sold, Kings House is thought to be suitable for private and social housing, subject to planning permission.