Johnston Press today announced proposals to create a divisional production centre in Horsham to handle work for all its titles across its South Division.

The company issued a statement this morning outlining its plans to introduce the new hub within Sussex Newspapers. It's understood the new production centre would be responsible for around 40 titles within the division, including Portsmouth's the News, the Eastbourne Herald & Gazette and the Worthing Herald.

The proposals follow "a detailed review of editorial production across the South Division" the statement adds.

"Prior to implementation of the proposed transfer of work we will consult extensively on an individual and collective basis.

"In the event the proposal goes ahead, the company will endeavour to minimise its impact through voluntary severance and redeployment to alternative positions within the company and the Group."

No further comment was available on the potential impact to jobs.

Yesterday, Journalism.co.uk reported that journalists at the Sheffield Star were preparing to take industrial action over management proposals to cut jobs at Johnston Press' "editorial hub" in Sheffield.

Members of the NUJ voted in favour of strike action last week and yesterday said they would act on the ballot, unless management guarantees no compulsory redundancies within the reorganisation plans.

Free daily newsletter

If you like our news and feature articles, you can sign up to receive our free daily (Mon-Fri) email newsletter (mobile friendly).