Maggie King (Letters, February 13) misunderstands what a more equal society means in practice.

Equality isn't about treating everyone the same. People are different and equality policies are needed to recognise that.

The city's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community is a minority and, despite strides in overcoming prejudice in the past decade, still faces discrimination.

Councillor Williams' proposal has touched a nerve locally and it's right this live issue should be debated.

But misconceptions about "preferential" treatment and "taxpayers'" expense generate more heat than light. Members of the LGBT community are taxpayers, too.

St James's Street and Kemp Town seafront are important. Let's agree the best way to recognise their unique cultural contribution.

-John Irvine, Brighton