Surely the answer to the "problem" of diving from the pier is not to ban it but to provide the facilities for it to be done safely.

This was perfectly possible a century ago when there were four diving boards on the West Pier, at differing heights up to 50ft.

It would cost relatively little to install a proper diving tower with springboards on the groyne adjacent to the Palace Pier, with qualified staff to provide supervision and instruction during the school holidays and summer weekends.

It would undoubtedly be very popular both with children and spectators on the pier and excellent value for money since it would keep youngsters out of mischief and help them to direct their energy usefully.

As the water is only deep enough for diving two hours before and after the higher tides, it would obviously be necessary to design the boards so they could be locked out of use at other times and a "shallow water" warning displayed - but this is hardly rocket science.

Several months ago, I put this suggestion to Councillor Middleton, head councillor for leisure, and am still waiting for a reply.

Brighton and Hove City Council needs to wake up to its heritage and the real culture of the city.

-Henry Law, Queen's Gardens, Brighton