Wonderful. It appears Brighton College has a new headmaster, Richard Cairns, and, like his predecessor, he's intent on lecturing us about the architecture and new developments we locals should have to live with (The Argus, March 21).

I wouldn't expect him to listen to or incorporate my views on education or the running of Brighton College, so why should we be interested in his views of development in the city? Is he a qualified architect? Does he have any previous local connections?

He accuses Brighton and Hove of lacking in vision. If he feels so strongly, why doesn't he and the members of Brighton and Hove City Forum, who have such strong views on which developments we should embrace, stand for election, arguing their case for architectural change.

Then, if and when they are elected, they can campaign for their pet projects via the correct channels and regularly be judged by the electorate as to the success or failure of their work.

That is how democracy is supposed to work, rather than via condescending propaganda.

Most complaints about our "vision" seem to stem from the refusal of permission to allow the proposed development at the Marina. As I understand it, this was subjected to the full and rigorous planning process and failed to receive permission.

There are adequate means of appeal if the developers and their supporters feel hard done by.

Mr Cairns' final assumption; "It amazes me one of the most remarkable and exciting buildings in Brighton, the Pavilion, would not now be given planning permission", is a ridiculous remark to make and I invite him to substantiate it.

-A McKirdy, Brighton