The only way is up if the raft of proposals for skyscrapers in Brighton and Hove is anything to go by.

In the Sixties, tower blocks were in vogue, as today's city centre and seafront skyline confirms.

Back then, these buildings were seen as a way of combating housing shortages.

But in the Seventies, public opinion turned against skyscrapers and fewer were planned. Now, it seems, they are back.

Huge tower blocks are planned for a series of prime sites, including King's Esplanade in Hove and the Endeavour garage site in Preston Road, Brighton. Five new blocks are also proposed for Brighton Marina.

These applications are bound to attract fierce debate and all it takes is a quick look around to see why.

Ugly high-rises dominate the view and are in stark contrast to much of the city's elegant architecture and its image as a trendy, forward thinking place to be.

The city council will not decide on any new application for a skyscraper until it has formulated a policy on tall buildings, a move which should be welcomed as everyone should want a consistent decision-making process.

One thing, however, is already clear - if these plans are approved the design should be first class.

No one wants to look out of their window to see more eyesores dotted across the horizon and bad design will do nothing for the resort's tourism trade and reputation.

If we must have skyscrapers, not one application should be passed until we are sure they will enhance the city and not be a burden on future generations. What is decided today will still make waves in decades to come.