Allan Allbeury's comments (Letters, November 16) are abusive and a rather bitter attempt to blame Brighton and Hove City Council for everything.

Yes, there are redevelopments going on in North Street and North Laine - and a good job, too. Would he prefer the former Essoldo and Evening Argus buildings to remain empty forever?

The exterior design of the Brighton Centre isn't very pleasant. But it was built in 1977 by a different generation, so there's no point in blaming the current council. As The Argus has often reported, the council is investigating the possibility of knocking it down and building a new one.

It would have been good if the former Hove Council could have prevented the sale of the Goldstone ground. But the law doesn't give councils such powers over private property. It would have been better still if the club's old management hadn't decided to sell it.

And if Mr Allbeury thinks there are council buildings and law courts in Queen's Road, he's not really in a position to criticise anyone for lack of vision.

-Coun Ken Bodfish, Leader, Brighton and Hove City Council