I used to live in Patcham "village", which was swallowed by bad town planning.

I read of plans for large-scale commercial development that will lead to Falmer being the next suburb of Brighton and Hove.

Now I read Brighton and Hove City Council wants no restrictions on its expansion plans for the future.

I am sure most people want a National Park to stop this incessant march of development, which destroys our community as well as our enjoyment of life.

Not long ago, I could walk out to my local bit of downland and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Now there are new factory units, a housing estate and the bypass to contend with. Life is much the poorer.

I used to love Brighton, with its exciting blend of town life and rural escape. But that real mix is all being lost, as more development pushes on and on.

I thought the council wanted the National Park. It seems I have been betrayed.

I have lost all respect for those people who are supposed to be looking after our new city.

Perhaps those in charge of the National Park can teach the council a lesson or two about respect for our green spaces and downland.

-Mrs Sheri B Fogden, Carden Avenue, Brighton