I read with dismay some negative and uninformed comments about the plans of Cardinal Newman School and our local hockey club to develop part of the large sports field adjoining Old Shoreham Road into two astro-turf hockey pitches and a clubhouse.

We are talking about somewhat underused playing fields, not green spaces planned as such.

Rather like much of tennis, hockey has progressed over the years and is no longer played on modest grass surfaces which are uneven, affected by the weather and require regular maintenance.

It has been difficult to find other suitable sites in the city and a clubhouse is essential to provide changing facilities, refreshments and relaxation, though it is unlikely to make profits for the club.

Many schools now offer hockey among their sports and Brighton and Hove Hockey Club provides a lot of coaching for the boys and girls - it certainly is not exclusive.

I am sure Cardinal Newman will be able to cope with the car parking and other schools and organisations will be able to continue to use the substantial remainder of the playing fields.

They may even welcome the astro pitches, too.

Most of all, hockey is a game for players. It will not bring crowds of spectators. As such, the planned new sports facilities can only be of benefit to our younger people and to the community at large.

The considered proposal deserves the full support of the city.

-John Colban, Brighton