Brighton needs a large lyric theatre for operas and musicals and it has one – the Hippodrome.

However, planners have chosen to allow it to be chopped up into a new multiplex cinema, despite us having two already (one just 250 metres from the Hippodrome).

If we did need a purpose built cinema, we also have one, the Astoria.

However this is to be demolished to make way for more offices and a few expensive penthouse apartments.

Now why not put the cinema in the cinema and allow the Hippodrome to become a new venue that means we do not have to travel to London to see musicals, operas, ballets and other spectaculars?

Let’s take this opportunity to put in place infrastructure to enhance Brighton’s reputation as a centre for the arts, not offer more bland offices and another two-thirds empty, popcorn multiplex.

Brian Snow, Upper Rock Gardens, Brighton.