John Stanaway (Letters, June 20) suggests the Dyke Railway should be restored as a tourist attraction.

This would be a splendid idea except for a very big problem. Although nearly all the track bed remains unobstructed, the first few hundred yards out of Aldrington station are now occupied by commercial premises and private housing. Also, the A27 Brighton bypass cuts right across it.

The project is a wonderful pipe dream but, unless the Brighton and Hove Tourist Board became involved, I doubt if there would be enough people in high places interested in reviving the line. Several million pounds and possibly some compulsory purchase would be required.

Alternatively, a tunnel at Aldrington would be just as costly. A Lottery grant might be an answer, although, in terms of mixed metaphors, pigs might fly. Compared with the Millennium Dome, the cost of a new Dyke Railway would be peanuts and it might even make money.

-David Lewins, The Gardens, Southwick