In the long debate about Frank Gehry's designs for the replacement of the inadequate King Alfred, The Argus has always taken a sober, consistent line.

The article by Andy Tate and the accompanying editorial comment (The Argus, September 6) were further examples of this.

The sound and fury of the past two years is based on whether the plans comply with the design briefs which form part of the legal agreement between Brighton and Hove City Council and Karis.

As The Argus stated, the considered recommendation by council officers to councillors in favour of the project in time for today's policy and resources committee meeting, is that they do.

A lot of the discussion on your letters pages has been about urban change, which some readers would embrace, some would tolerate and others bitterly reject.

These views and the many consultation meetings which have taken place represent a proper, democratic backdrop against which our elected representatives make their decisions.

A city's ability to welcome radical change is a prerequisite of its health as a modern, progressive community.

When this change involves one of the world's best architects and one of Britain's best sculptors, Antony Gormley, I'm impressed.

When it includes a number of affordable flats for key workers, I'm delighted for them.

When it means the current out-of-date current sports facilities will be replaced by a wide range of facilities designed by HOK Sport, world leaders in leisure activities, I'm thrilled for sports lovers.

And when this development starts and provides work and training for local people, I proudly anticipate our community will benefit.

This development represents an historic opportunity for the people of Brighton and Hove to build, take part in, live in and enjoy a regeneration of international status.

We won't be emulating Bilbao or Los Angeles. This will be a Brighton and Hove experience, with all the enthusiasm, excitement and spirit we know our city can provide.

-Chris Morely, Brighton