The article by Tim Ridgway (The Argus, August 19) again highlights the issues surrounding the once-proud West Pier.

I admit to having admiration for the old pier and for those who built it – many people still remember that Brighton and Hove is special for having two piers rather than just one.

Tim might be happy to have an app on his phone which gives details of the pier, a kind of “virtual version” of the West Pier, but many people probably prefer a real physical version which is distinctive, even if it has to be low maintenance.

Like many people, I have found it annoying that successive councils and the West Pier Trust have not been able to make clear decisions about it. I do agree with the brief statement in the new City Plan that the council should work with the West Pier Trust and English Heritage to further enhance this area of the seafront.

The West Pier may never look like it did in its heyday but that doesn’t mean we should give up on it and have a “virtual” version instead.

Let’s consider other low-maintenance options using funding from a variety of sources. One idea might be to have an American style “boardwalk” with other attractions alongside the entrance to the pier. This could be open for the main summer season and have a different style to the Palace Pier.

It is difficult to understand why part or all of the funding allocated to the i360 tower cannot be spent on reviving this part of the seafront while meeting the aims expressed by the West Pier Trust.

A second “pier with a difference” could help complement the Palace Pier and further regenerate this part of the seafront.

Rob Heale, Chatham Place, Brighton

Further to the letter from Rachel Clark of the West Pier Trust (August 26), expressing the confidence of the Trust, their architects and Brighton and Hove City Council that the proposed i360 project will be delivered, I predict this scheme will never come to fruition.

The promoters will not be able to find their prime funding to add to the £18 million loan promised by the council on behalf of their ratepayers – their forecasts of customer traffic are hopelessly optimistic, as any potential lenders will soon realise.

I would pledge money that this scheme for the seafront never gets up and running.

Ivor Sorokin, The Spinney, Hove