The decision to use the Grand Ocean Hotel, in Saltdean, as accommodation for asylum seekers not only affects local residents but also the local economy.

This hotel is used by individual holidaymakers and national tour operators.

The people staying there spend money locally and use the services of people like myself, who work in the tourist industry.

Just a few days ago, I was asked by a large company to guide a tour for a party staying there.

The hotel has also hosted a familiarisation weekend for the Group Organisers Association, which came to see what the area has to offer its members.

It doesn't matter how many of the 598 beds are used for asylum purposes, once the hotel's reputation is lost, it will take years to regain.

In the meantime, plenty of local businesses will lose the income they would have gained from its guests.

We should be maintaining a good tourism infrastructure. This vital industry has already been dealt a blow by the downturn in overseas visitors since September 11 and the continuing threat of war.

What is going on when a good-quality seafront hotel can earn more money by taking in asylum seekers than visitors and holidaymakers? Is it not likely other hotels will consider following suit, as has happened in other resorts such as Hastings?

-Glenda Clarke, Clover Way, Portslade