So, internationally renowned architects are lining up to put forward plans for the leisure complex on the King Alfred site.

Architects at this level don't come cheap. Would it not be better and probably cheaper for Brighton and Hove City Council and other organisations to hold a competition for local and student architects, with priority given to people who know and appreciate the city?

And shouldn't the council start giving strict guidelines to architects and companies proposing new structures that only plans sympathetic with the style of the surrounding buildings and area will be taken into account?

There has been much trumpeting now work has begun on the new library in the city centre. However, all we have seen are artists' impressions showing clean, glossy images of a yet-to-be-built utopia.

These never live up to expectations when constructed. Soon we will be hit again with another characterless complex - the Air Street redevelopment, alongside the awful shopping mall on the Essoldo Theatre site in North Street.

Add to this the unbelievable prospect of a mini-skyscraper on the Hove seafront and the development on the shore by the West Pier and you really have to start questioning the mental fitness of the planning authorities.

The unique character of Brighton and Hove has been built on an architectural tradition that has stood the test of time.

We have lost some beautiful and unique buildings in this city and, if we don't wake up and take note, we risk losing a hell of a lot more. Bigger is not always better.

-D A Coles, South Coast Road, Peacehaven