In response to points made by councillors Warren Morgan and Gill Mitchell (Letters, March 18 and 19).

Brighton and Hove City Council is committed to buying locally and we use a huge range of local suppliers. However, we also have to make sure this represents the best value for money for council taxpayers.

The contract for hanging baskets for the city was tendered in line with normal council procedures. Two Sussex companies were invited to apply for the tender but one chose not to and the other was significantly more expensive.

Window Flowers were chosen for the quality of their floral displays and also, importantly, their tender was £12,000 less than that from the Sussex company – saving council taxpayers’ money.

Window Flowers say they will be happy to purchase baskets for displays from Brighton and Hove businesses if suitable ones are available locally.

Hanging baskets and floral displays enhance the city, helping make it more attractive to residents and visitors.

Improvements to our car parks – which both councillors refer to – are about making them secure and welcoming for local people and visitors, ensuring people want to return.

Let me make it clear we are not sacking car park staff as Coun Morgan states. Staff and unions have been fully consulted about the changes, which will include a dedicated maintenance team, a 24-hour control centre, CCTV and improved lighting.

Yes, charges have gone up to help pay for the refurbishment – but I should stress that this is the first increase in parking charges in the Lanes and London Road car parks in eight years. Even with the increased prices, the council car parks will still be considerably cheaper than other privately-run car parks in the city.

We have to make sure people keep coming to our city centre – and want to come back again because of the facilities and welcome they find here.

Councillor Geoffrey Theobald
cabinet member for environment
Brighton and Hove City Council