Businesses from the South East have a new base in Brussels.

Opening today, South East England House will provide a focal point for European lobbying and allow firms based in Sussex to gain maximum benefit from developments in the European Union.

Partners in South East England House are the South East England Regional Assembly, the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and borough and county councils from across the region.

The office will represent more than 40 groups.

SEEDA chairman Allan Willett said: "For the first time the whole of the South East of England is being represented in one location at the heart of Europe.

"By working in unity, the region will exert increased influence and be able to reap far greater benefits in Europe than before.

"The work of South East England House will combine the benefits of democratic representation with provision of valuable support for our business community.

"The region's representatives will have enhanced liaison with MEPs and provide improved representation for the South East with European institutions."

The opening also marks the launch of the South East's European strategy, jointly developed by the regional development agency, regional assembly and regional partners.

It takes the form of a consultation document which invites comment from interested parties by December 22.

Reinforcing the importance of the launch, SEEDA deputy chairman Ken Bodfish said: "South East England must act determinedly to reap the benefits of Europe and to stay economically and socially in step with our neighbours on the Continent.

"A permanent presence in Brussels and a comprehensive European strategy for the entire region will provide us with an excellent starting block to quickly take advantage of emerging policies, legislation and funding to benefit our region."