The Sussex economy is well placed to survive the coming year despite the economic downturn.

Business support organisation Sussex Enterprise said prospects were good but the Government had to remove barriers to growth.

Chief executive Ken Caldwell said: "Our members employ more than half the working population of Sussex and they will be wishing for a year without new employment legislation and unnecessary government red tape.

"Following our report, which identified a potential shortfall of 90,000sq meters of office space over the next five years, we would like councils in Sussex to see if they can find some new space for business development.

"We will also be looking for the Government's study into transport links to dramatically improve the links between the towns along the South coast. We need a transport network that meets the needs of the 21st Century rather than one which is 40 years out of date.

"Gatwick Airport is a vitally important part of the Sussex economy. One of the priorities for the coming months will be to work hard with our members in the Gatwick area to make sure the local economy bounces back from the downturn that followed September 11.

"Everyone can help by booking their summer holidays and business trips soon and stating a firm preference they fly out from Gatwick."

Research from Sussex Enterprise revealed a need for additional training for staff in the key areas of engineering, marketing and customer care.

Director of policy Mark Froud said: People should try to get to grips with the sales culture of their organisations, whether or not they are part of the sales force.

"To fight off the global economic slowdown, we need an army of effective managers in Sussex to make our businesses more focused and effective.

"The quickest way of getting better managers is to train up the people we already have working for us.

"Anyone considering a total career change should take a serious look at engineering. Local employers are crying out for decent, specialist engineers and, if we want to avoid becoming a nation of shopkeepers, we need to start making things again.

"Sussex Enterprise will be working closely with the new Sussex Learning and Skills Council this year to make sure the education and training providers throughout the county are aware of the sorts of skills local businesses need and that there are plenty of opportunities to acquire them."