Some of the finest architecture in Brighton can be found in the Brunswick and Adelaide ward, where Regency townhouses overlook well-kept lawns and orderly streets. The custodians of these historic areas have, for hundreds of years, carefully and meticulously maintained the buildings and public spaces. Because of this, the Brunswick and Adelaide have remained relatively intact, but residents and conservationists have called for more attention to be paid to litter, unpleasant behaviour, and the construction of unwanted "clobber".

"You can walk down the Western Road and you'd see how the area's gone a bit shabby," said one local resident who did not wish to be identified, "and it isn't just the drunks themselves, its those tacky offies and all the clobber on the pavement". These sentiments are shared by many local residents, many of whom would like to see neater walkways.

A recent conservation development in the city has been a ban on estate agents' boards outside houses for sale or for rent. Any resident with an unwanted sign outside their property can have it officially removed. This is the result of a decade-long campaign by local councillors. "I really am delighted as I think this will make a huge difference to our urban environment," writes Paul Elgood on his blog.

Residents have also complained of antisocial behaviour in neglected properties. A squat developed at number 19, Brunswick Place, and the surrounding properties were affected by loud music, frequent noisy visitors, and the effects of drug abuse. The property has since been sold and the squatters evicted, but residents fear that if the developers do not use the building immediately, it will fall into the hands of antisocial people once more. Paul Elgood is confident that the new owner of the property will act fast to prevent it from being compromised again: "The owner then plans to submit a planning application to convert buildings into flats. I hope this will resolve the ongoing problem there, and bring back into use some much needed housing."

It is clear that the residents of Brunswick and Adelaide are proud of the area, but that constant modernisation is going to permanently change the appearance and atmosphere of the ward.