The number of vacancies in banking administration in London is set to increase over the next few years, with Halifax announcing the creation of 600 new jobs in the capital.

The jobs will come as a result of the opening of 40 new Halifax branches, part of a large expansion by the building society in the south of England, with a total of 100 new branches expected to open over the next five years.

The first new London branch is planned for Cannon Street, replacing an older smaller branch, with a second ready to open on Fenchurch Street by the end of the month.

Another seven branches will be opened by the end of this year, giving a boost to those seeking employment in the banking and administration job sectors.

Commenting on the focus of the building society's expansion on London, Rob Devey, Halifax's head of distribution said: "This is the start of a major investment programme in London. It is our biggest expansion in the capital in over 30 years."

The new Cannon Street branch is set to employ 18 full-time staff, trebling the number employed by the previous branch.