How far-sighted of the local business community to back Brighton and Hove's bid to become Europe's City of Culture with sponsorship of £200,000 (January 16).

Clearly, they realise success will pay large economic dividends.

Brighton and Hove City Council, which is also investing in the bid, can make a successful outcome more likely by really getting behind the plans for a new community stadium.

If it doesn't, people are bound to question the extent of its ambitions.

As well as providing a venue for cultural events, the stadium will provide Brighton and Hove with a world-class piece of architecture.

Council leader Ken Bodfish has correctly said there haven't been many examples of that in recent years so we're bound to hear him speaking out in favour of the project soon - especially as the stadium won't cost the council or its taxpayers a penny.

-Neil Bergin, by email