Stagecoach has reached an agreement to sell part of its operations in the south east to Eastbourne Buses.

The decision means that, subject to successful completion of negotiations, four routes will be taken over by Eastbourne Buses in approximately two months time.

Most of the 70 Stagecoach employees affected by the changes will be offered posts either with Eastbourne Buses or at other Stagecoach depots.

Stagecoach staff have been informed of the agreement and local union officials are being consulted about the changes.

The Eastbourne depot, which is not part of the deal with Eastbourne Buses, will close and be put up for sale.

The routes being taken over by Eastbourne Buses are the number 17, Eastbourne - Stone Cross - Eastbourne - Polegate service, the number 51 between Eastbourne and Hailsham, the number 52 running between Eastbourne and Tunbridge Wells and the 53 Eastbourne to Heathfield service.

Stagecoach will continue to operate the 98 Eastbourne to Hastings service and the 712 running between Eastbourne and Brighton, from other bases.

Customers will see virtually no difference to the public bus timetable as part of the changes.

Andrew Dyer, Managing Director of Stagecoach South East, said "We have carried out a review of our operation in the area, which has seen the number of buses based at our Eastbourne depot reduce in recent years.

"The small number of buses and the level of income from these routes could not, unfortunately, sustain the costs of a large purpose-built garage.

"We have considered various options and have decided that the sale of part of the business to Eastbourne Buses provides the best solution for bus users locally and for our employees at the Eastbourne depot."

Commenting on the deal, Steve Barnett, Managing Director of Eastbourne Buses, said "This opportunity could not have come at a better time for Eastbourne Buses.

"We are currently consulting Eastbourne bus users on our plans for the improvement of our services within Eastbourne. The routes to Hailsham, Heathfield and Tunbridge Wells complement our plans perfectly and the purchase of this business will enable us to improve the range of services we provide."