Work on an £11 million project to revitalise one of Newhaven Harbour's run-down quays will begin next month.

The West Quay will be redeveloped for a variety of uses, which the project's backers hope will form a central part of the town's overall regeneration.

The fishing industry will be boosted with a brand new fish market, processing works, landing stages and workshops.

The work will also include building 64 new houses and flats, public open spaces, car park, riverside walkways and cycleways.

The project marks the biggest single investment in Newhaven in recent years.

Sea Containers, which owns Newhaven port, is investing more than £8 million.

The South-East England Development Agency (Seeda) contributed £2 million.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and the EU has also put up cash.

The new fishing complex has been part-funded by the Newhaven Fish and Flake Ice Society.

Paul Rann, managing director of Sea Containers Property, said: "We are all delighted to announce the start of work on the West Quay project, which will provide a major boost for Newhaven."

Stephen Sadler, area director for regeneration at Seeda, said: "We believe this project will make a positive difference to Newhaven and the town's fishing community."

Riverside walkways and cycleways are expected to be among the first stages of the development to be completed.

The first of the new homes should go on sale next year.