The choice of Falmer as the site for Albion's new stadium is the best from an environmental point of view of those that were considered but it is far from ideal.

Drawbacks include being too far out of town, poor transport links and being too close to the proposed national park.

It has been heroically opposed by local residents who, I am now persuaded, deserve to win their case. I think John Prescott is right to give us a last chance to make a better decision.

We must be thankful to Robert Powell (Letters, July 28) for his inspired analysis of the situation but as I understand it, the site he proposes is already being developed and he makes no mention of funding arrangements. However, I agree with him that a central location is essential to maximise the benefits of this scheme.

My suggestion (not new) is that we should give further consideration to the grass-covered area north of the Rotunda and tennis courts in Preston Park for a new stadium and underground car park for 2,000 cars, with the proviso that any difficulties concerning underground water courses or restrictive covenants can be overcome.

Revenue from the car park could be used to provide long-term funding. If this site was to prove viable, it could solve two long-standing problems which the city has struggled with for years - the need for a central community stadium and large-scale parking near the city centre.

Transport links would be excellent, whether by train, bus or car and many more people would be able to walk to the ground.

Consider the benefits that Chichester has enjoyed since providing 900 car parking places in the park by the new theatre. It has cut out the need for park and ride and brings visitors almost into the city centre where they want to be and has allowed large-scale pedestrianisation.

In Brighton, it would alleviate the need for people to drive to the seafront looking for somewhere to park.

Dick Knight and Martin Penny must feel they are enduring some new form of Chinese water torture - the process just goes on and on - but, eventually, if we get the right result we could become a Premiership club.

The council should give them the maximum possible support remembering that parties in the park are easier to organise in a stadium, there will also be big spin-offs for business and employment.

-Alan Nunn, Hove