The great Regency squares and terraces of Brighton and Hove are generally given tender loving care by their owners.

But that's not always the case in the many other fine Victorian and Regency conservation areas where owners often chip away at their beauty.

One removed railing or house painted an odd colour may not matter much. Where it happens widely, over time the charm of these conservation areas is eroded.

That's why it's good news that, with general consent, Brighton and Hove Council is proposing new controls in six areas which mean people will have to apply for planning permission to make changes.

These controls should help uplift these areas of fine houses so owners and other residents are able to take real pride in them too.