More than £300 million will be spent improving Sussex's water during the next five years.

Southern Water is planning at least 40 projects to bring environmental improvements to the rivers and seas of Sussex and keep operations up to European standards.

The bulk of the money is earmarked for the proposed sewage treatment centre in Peacehaven, which is expected to cost £200 million.

The rest of the money will go towards upgrading existing projects across the county, including £15 million to upgrade the treatment works in Sidlesham. A further £27 million will be spent on similar improvements at treatment centres including Horsham and Fairlight.

Southern Water asset director Martin Baggs said: "Improving the environment is at the heart of our business.

"Therefore we're looking forward to carrying out these projects which build on the past 15 years of investment which have already brought significant benefits to the area."

The money is part of a £1.75 billion package of environmental and service improvements.