Brighton and Hove City Council and, in particular, councillor Gill Mitchell deserve support from the community for their radical measures to tackle traffic congestion (The Argus, July 6).

As we all know now, although some don't like to admit it, the "great car civilisation" is grinding to a halt.

I have always supported the creation of park-and-ride sites on the edge of the city because I believe they are a necessary sacrifice of Greenfield land if we are to halt the growth of congestion, noise and air pollution in the city centre.

However, the creation of parking spaces on the edge of the city will not reduce city-centre congestion, even with the new rapid (but limited) bus service.

The result is likely to be more economic activity, at least in the short term, but little long-term reduction in congestion - though I accept there would be a temporary reduction.

The creation of edge-of-town car parks must be matched by the reduction of parking spaces and increased pedestrianisation in the city centre.

Pedestrianisation has been a great success in Brighton and should be continued. People, residents and shoppers all like it.

I am also struck by the growing numbers of cyclists in Brighton, despite its hilly streets and the dangerous traffic volumes which roll around them.

The council has recorded an impressive 50 per cent increase in cycle trips since 2000. It should continue encouraging cycling and the best way to do so is to reduce the volume of traffic.

The British Medical Association strongly supports the health benefits of cycling and called for cycling to be made safer. I also support its call to make the wearing of cycle helmets compulsory.

To overcome gridlock and pollution, the council has to think big.

It has gone in search of international architects who can deliver radical improvements to our built environment.

Perhaps it should look here and abroad for urban planners who can look at our seafront to develop a vision of radical transformation and improvement which we and future generations could all enjoy.

-John Ballance, Brighton