When I think of "urban renaissance", I don't think of offices being built on valuable allotment land as proposed by the Brighton and Hove Economic Partnership (March 6).

I think of community groups taking over underused allotment sites and teaching people about how to grow their own food and educating kids so they know spuds and carrots come from the ground, not plastic bags.

I think of food being produced for the neighbourhood so people can have fresh produce on their plates with all its health benefits, as opposed to food that has been flown half-way across the world, with all the environmental consequences.

I think of green oases for wildlife and tranquil places for people to relax, away from everyday life.

I think of an urban renaissance where the city of Brighton and Hove becomes more self-sufficient in producing its own food and a place where our allotments and green fields are seen as community treasures and not rich pickings for ugly office developments.

-Warren Carter, Moulsecoomb Forest Garden Project, Saint Martin's Street, Brighton