IT is pretty certain that when Julian Caddy responded to an Argus request for suggestions for the new owners of Palace Pier, he could not have imagined the response he would get to his article.

The Argus canvassed many views but it is the fringe festival chief’s views that understandably made the headlines. And they brought a storm down on his head.

The managing director’s views were uncompromising – he says now he could have been more diplomatic – and very clear.

He hates the pier in its present form and insists it needs more variety, even suggesting a Michelin-star restaurant should be part of the mix.

But Mr Caddy wasn’t just writing about the pier in yesterday’s Argus.

He was making broader points about the dual nature of our city.

For Mr Caddy the garish kiss-me-quick side of our personality is overshadowing the go-ahead creative modern side. And that, he was suggesting, is not attracting a different type of visitor to spend their time and cash here.

As we said yesterday, we do not agree with Mr Caddy’s analysis.

The cultural mix in Brighton and Hove is what makes the place intoxicating.

One minute we can be on the dodgems on the pier, the next in a vegan restaurant and the next relaxing in a beautiful park, which is why so many visitors do actually want to come here.

But Mr Caddy has a right to start a conversation and should not be castigated for that.

We will not do ourselves any favours by telling people to keep their heads below the parapet.

It is vigorous, passionate public debate that moves a city forwards, not deals done in private back rooms.