BBC South West is to move from its current headquarters at Broadcasting House in Plymouth to the city's new Sutton Harbour development.

The BBC region will occupy 22,000 square feet across three floors in the eleven storey development.

"This move will place our journalists and programme-makers closer to our audience and provide us with accessible facilities fit for the digital future," said BBC South West head John Lilley. "It's an exciting time for the BBC in the South West and demonstrates the BBC's commitment to developing and maintaining the strength of its local and regional broadcasting."

Building work will start next year and the BBC plans to move into the premises by late in 2010.

"The new development at Sutton Harbour is part of the BBC's wider commitment to provide modern, flexible, open buildings for the digital age, situated in the heart of the communities we serve," said BBC Workplace head Chris Kane.