I could not agree more with John Adams – Church House reflects the brutalism of 1960s design more than it does the gentler and much more pleasing architecture of its surroundings. The proposal by the trustees of Church House to replace it with a building

I could not agree more with John Adams - Church House reflects the brutalism of 1960s design more than it does the gentler and much more pleasing architecture of its surroundings.

The proposal by the trustees of Church House to replace it with a building more in keeping with Churchyard (My Vision, The Comet March 9) is welcome in itself. Creating a much better community facility as well means the town will be richer all round for their endeavours.

Just across the way, on the other side of the church, we are told to expect another major improvement if and when Churchgate is redeveloped. I do not pretend to understand the intricacies of planning legislation, but it is accepted practice for large developments such as this to contribute to the fabric and infrastructure of the community. It seems particularly appropriate that a new retail redevelopment on one side of the church should fund a much needed community facility on its other side.

North Herts District Council, as the planning authority, has the power to bring this kind of funding partnership to fruition, and Hitchin councillors in particular should do everything in their power to make this vision a reality for Hitchin.

ELLIE CLARKE, Highbury Road, Hitchin

* Redevelopment of Church House, Hitchin. As a member of three of the 60 organisations that use Church House for functions I am heartened by the courageous vision of the Team Rector of Hitchin, Rev Michael Roden (The Comet front page March 9).

Here we have an ideal opportunity of ridding Hitchin of another 1960s monstrosity during the redevelopment of Hitchin town centre. Church House needs to be brought into the 21st century inside, but in perfect harmony with the centuries-old adjacent row outside. What is really required is the complete redevelopment of the site, which will survive for many more years, rather than a make-over of the existing structure that will not bring the harmony outside while addressing some of the issues inside still does not resolve all of them.

Getting agreement for this proposal is already won with the Trustees, PCC and DCC members all in agreement on the way ahead. North Herts District councillors now have the power to make funding available as part of the town centre redevelopment and press ahead with this excellent proposal.

May I urge all the residents of Hitchin to give their wholehearted support to the vicar in his vision to create a much needed and up to date facility for the community in the centre of Hitchin, which we can all be proud to use. The new facility will be a joy to use and will bring to the people of Hitchin pride in our town centre.

Bravo, Michael keep up the good work.

LESLIE R HODGES, MBE