A proposed streamlining of operations has been announced for Courier Newspapers in Tunbridge Wells as part of Northcliffe’s Aim Higher programme.

Under the plans there would be a reduction in the number of subbing teams at Courier Newspapers, together with a strengthening of local community news gathering operations.

The sports and photographic teams would be centralised in Tunbridge Wells and a new dedicated unit created to produce Homebuyer, Today Magazine and other commercial supplements and features.

There would be a reduction in the number of editions of the Kent and Sussex Courier and their weekly free distribution property supplement, Homebuyer Weekly would cease publication.

There are no detailed proposals as yet because consultation is under way with editorial staff.

But Roger Watkins, editor-in-chief of the South East Weeklies, said in a memo to staff: “Investment has been secured to expand editorial in the group’s weekly property supplement to the Kent and Sussex Courier and Sevenoaks Chronicle – Homebuyer and to increase salary levels.

“Further commitment has been secured to experiment with more flexible working arrangements as a means of aiding long-term staff retention within the department.

“Finally the management of the team would be rationalised with all departments reporting to the editor-in-chief of Courier Newspapers.”