Plenty of people are scoffing at the idea of Brighton and Hove being the European Capital of Culture in 2008.

How, they ask, can Brighton and Hove possibly be mentioned in the same breath as previous winners such as Paris and Copenhagen?

The answer is that there has never been a better time for the city to go for a title which has also been won by smaller but world-famous cities such as Bruges in Belgium.

Following the magnificent restoration of the Royal Pavilion, the Dome has just been renovated at a cost of £22 million. It is now one of the best cultural centres in Britain.

But there is more on the way. Plans are being submitted for restoring the West Pier, the only Grade I listed pier in the country, together with a new leisure centre.

There are plans to revive the site of the old Black Rock swimming pool which has enormous scope for leisure and pleasure.

New development is proceeding which will almost complete the Brighton Marina after more than 20 years.

Plans have been put in that will redevelop the long-derelict land next to Brighton station and a new scheme is being drawn up for the King Alfred leisure centre in Hove.

Brighton and Hove also has a large arts-based economy and a thriving arts faculty based at Brighton University.

The city is well placed to bid for this prestigious title which would bring huge benefits.

But even if the bid fails, Brighton and Hove will have had great fun along the way.