I am rather disturbed by the policy of English Heritage to fund endangered buildings.

It is going to acquire Apethorpe Hall in Northamptonshire and spend £12m of public money to restore it despite the fact somebody wants to do it with his own money.

Why is this being given more priority over equally important buildings that cannot be funded with private money?

I specifically refer to the West Pier in Brighton. The cost of Apethorpe Hall plus National Lottery money is enough to restore West Pier to its 1920 appearance yet English Heritage has given up.

I accept Apethorpe Hall is of national importance but so is the West Pier. I am surprised at the priorities of English Heritage when an alternative-funding stream is available.

-Martin Foster, Brighton