Too little too late?

WITH reference to the planning committee's decision to oppose the demolition and redevelopment of the former Playhouse cinema, it is gratifying to observe this new-found enthusiasm for preserving the character of the town. Is this the same committee which sanctioned the abysmal De La Warr Heights? Too little, too late perhaps but we must not be bitter. Of course, this is unlikely to be the end of the matter and to cite '˜lack of parking' in a main retail street may yet prove to be an own goal if the matter goes to appeal.

Much as I would like the idea of a return to the use of the building as a cinema, I doubt that this is a realistic aspiration. Television/ computer/ DVD technology is fast reducing the cinema concept to that of an anachronism but if the façade of the building can be incorporated into an appropriate redesign of the interior then something of the ambiance and history of the town can be retained.

Whilst I applaud this change of heart on the part of the planning committee I cannot help but let a note of cynicism creep in. Would this new-found enthusiasm for opposing Mammon still have occurred had there not been a rumour that it is Tesco which is interested in the development? Are we to see a replay of the ill-informed and ultimately unwarranted hysteria which accompanied the Hood site redevelopment?

FRANK WOOD

Collington Lane East

Bexhill