WE TAKE local residents’ views very seriously and want to address some of the concerns raised in your article “Neighbours: We have not been consulted” (The Argus, July 12).

Over the last eight months, we have done our utmost to consult with residents, businesses and stakeholders.

Eight open consultation events in local venues were arranged by First Base which were attended by more than 200 people, we have also gone door to door including in White Street to speak to as many of the residents living close to the development as possible.

In addition, four newsletters were sent to more than 1,500 households and a website/phone line has been active throughout the consultation period.

We have been communicating the height of the proposed buildings since November 2017; on all consultation boards, newsletters and in an article in The Argus.

We are pleased that the proposals are between three and eight storeys, lower than the previous Amex House building; which minimises any impact on local heritage assets.

As council officials have confirmed at recent speaking engagements, Brighton is a city which is straining under the pressure of demand for housing and commercial space.

The Edward St Quarter development will help to ease this pressure with modern workspace for more than 2,000 people, 168 new homes and a significant economic boost to the Brighton economy.

We are striving to create a development which is beneficial for the neighbouring community, as well as the city as a whole.

Steve Eccles
Project Director, First Base