The Newspaper Society and the Newspaper Publishers Association look set to have a closer working relationship by sharing offices and working under the joint directorship of David Newell.

Both organisations will operate from St Andrew's House from February 1, under the directorship of David, who is the current director of the Newspaper Society.

The agreement follows the Society's recent move to St Andrew's House, off Holborn Circus in the centre of London, and NPA director Steve Oram's decision to leave earlier this year, and each organisation will retain its autonomy, identity and independence.

In a joint statement, NPA chairman Murdoch MacLennan and NS president Paul Davidson said: "There are significant public policy and external challenges which national and regional newspaper businesses face in common.

"It is increasingly important that the NS and NPA – representing the regional and national press - build on their work for the entire industry.

"Bringing our two staffs together in the same building, under the skilled directorship of David Newell, will allow us to develop an already close working relationship and achieve a stronger, more effective voice for UK newspapers."

NPA's lease on its current Southwark Bridge Road premises is due to come to an end shortly.