Art and architecture

But he is terribly wrong to dismiss the art deco Astoria for this purpose. Organisations such as the Cinema Theatre Association and the Twentieth Century Society, as well as independent architects and our own investigations, indicate that the interior has not seriously deteriorated in its 14 years of disuse.

The listing of the building in 2000 saved it from immediate demolition.

Renovation would not require destruction or removal of its listed art deco features. Only demolition – as proposed by the current owner – would result in this. Replacing it with an office block, at a time when office blocks nearby are almost empty, would seem ridiculous.

The Hippodrome is now costed at almost £10m to repair and open – two to three times as much as the Astoria, large parts of which are almost immediately available for re-use.

The Astoria Moving Pictue Trust is currently in negotiation to achieve a sustainable model that respects this listed building which is an important part of Brighton’s architectural and cultural history.

Colin Dibley, Matthew May
Astoria Moving Picture Trust
Grafton Street, Brighton

I see no reason why The Astoria shouldn’t be demolished, but only if something worthwhile and well designed goes up in its place.

The thought of a “Conran-designed media hub” is appalling – that’s just a trendy name for an office block – and do we really need any more of these in Brighton?

No, we don’t – and I think the proposed design is somewhat dull.

However, it is crystal clear to me that our city is absolutely desperate for a proper modern art gallery.

This seems to be one important thing that Brighton lacks.

Eastbourne has a fabulous new gallery in the Towner – we want and need one in Brighton. The new gallery could be designed by Rick Mather who designed the Towner and won several awards.

This site would be ideal as it’s the right size and in the perfect location.

Does anyone else favour my proposal?

D Burgess
Longhill Road, Brighton