Much as we all may wish to see the West Pier restored as a Grade I listed structure, Brighton and Hove City Council must not allow itself to be scaremongered into passing plans that would destroy an even more important heritage - our seafront, with views of the sea blocked by great commercial developments either side of the pier.

The West Pier Preservation Society was formed in 1979, so a little longer to get the plans right is neither here nor there.

While it is the council's duty to ensure the pier is restored to a Grade I standard, it is also its duty to see that any additional building enhances the area.

One wonders, of course, if it is in the remit of a council to lease away public land, including a right of way, at a peppercorn rent, namely £140,000 for 125 years.

Four years ago, despite overwhelming opposition from residents and amenity groups, the council approved plans for rebuilding the Aquarium Terraces - look what we got.

Instead of the elegant terraces of the Thirties, where people could sit or walk in peace, we have great black roofs and meritless buildings blocking the sea view from Marine Parade in violation of the original Aquarium Act, and instead of eight high-class restaurants we have a cafe-bazaar, a hamburger joint and a large amusement arcade.

The remainder of the development remains apparently unlettable and the greater part of the site is still encased in cages.

Locals did know best here. Let it be so with the West Pier.

-Jean Penney, Camelford Street, Brighton