The decision by Brighton and Hove city planners to refuse permission for two new rides on the Palace Pier may at first sight seem callous following the serious fire on Tuesday night.

But the unanimous verdict of councillors was the right one, both for the pier and for the city.

There has been a long history of conflict between the pier company and planners over a series of large rides on the pier head.

Four years ago, a planning inspector came down in favour of the company. He said rides should be allowed for the good of the city's economy and the viability of the pier.

But no one could say the rides are beautiful on the end of a listed building in a conservation area and they compare poorly with the elegant theatre which once occupied their site.

The two new rides, although slender in construction, would have been more than 40m tall when extended. That is as high as a 13-storey block of flats.

They would have overwhelmed the pier head, especially when combined with a third ride, which has not yet been installed despite having planning permission.

We wish the pier company well in its efforts to rebuild the pier head quickly so rides can operate again as soon as possible.

After that, directors should liaise with the council. There is probably room for one rather than two new rides - but not 40m high.