AS someone who was born and raised in Bournemouth, I am happy to see commercial and tourist developments bringing prosperity to the town.

However, must we sweep away older buildings which delight the eye and offer refuge from the hurly-burly of modern life?

For example, the Punshon Memorial Church could perhaps have been converted into an art centre (Tate Bournemouth?).

The charming Queen’s Hall at the Lansdowne could have been kept as a community centre.

The Lansdowne Baptist Church may soon be replaced by a mundane 1950s-style development. Oh dear.

Let us keep and cherish those unusual buildings which add character to our town.

DOUGLAS BOWEN

Stopples Lane, Lymington