The other day I received a clumsily worded consultation letter about Brighton and Hove as a 20mph city.

It confirmed my suspicions that we are going backwards.

Doubtless, we will soon have people walking in front of cars with flags and, thereafter, horse-drawn carriages and...

Haven’t the Greens realised this is the 21st century?

Haven’t they realised this is a hilly area where thousands of people rely on their cars for genuine reasons?

Who are all these people screaming for cycle lanes and obstructions in our roads?

Who are all these people who have suddenly decided it is necessary to select against motorists and make their lives as difficult as possible?

I know of no one who has been pushing for the farcical arrangements now confronting us – on the contrary, most people I know would like the roads restored to their original state. But then, as we all know, the council would lose income from a soft target.

Has anyone listened to what motorists think about these arrangements or what their views are regarding cyclists?

Has anyone realised that slowing down traffic introduces another danger? People now chance their arm crossing the road.

Has anyone given real consideration to the way in which trade is being affected?

Then there’s the cost. Regardless of where the money is coming from, it eventually comes out of our pocket and, at a time when people are struggling, it’s a disgrace that money – no matter the source – is being wasted on non-essential Green posturing.

How much did the letter and questionnaire cost with all the “add-ons” of postage and the production of translations?

Finally, why should a questionnaire concerning speed limits in a specific area (the conclusion of which is probably predetermined) be influenced by people other than those who live in the area concerned?

It’s time the council acted responsibly, devising a business plan of benefit to the economy of Brighton and Hove.

Neil Kelly, Tredcroft Road, Hove