AMAZEMENT to put it mildly, was my feeling when I read Mr Dave Wells’ views regarding the Bournemouth town hall, which he suggested should be converted back into its original use as a hotel.

The purchase of the building in the 1920s was a very wise and long-sighted decision made by the city fathers of those days who looked ahead to prepare for the increase in the inevitable rapid building up of the demands of administration created by the fast growing popularity of Bournemouth as the town made steps towards becoming the premier seaside resort of the UK.

If Mr Wells is anxious that we should lose our stately and most imposing edifice to be sacrificed as a ‘top end’ hotel (Mr Wells’ description) why doesn’t he also include a reference to Buckingham Palace, an equally majestic and illustrious edifice, and the pride of the British people. Surely the Palace would offer a great attraction as a ‘top end’ hotel.

No, Mr Wells, it would be sheer sacrilege to convert or demolish the town hall, which has for so many years served the purpose for which it was purchased adequately and competently.

Respecting its situation, the building couldn’t have been placed in more convenient and accessible position for the publics use and which site far outweighs Littledown lands as suggested.

The building is the envy of many municipalities and its very existence demands we retain it in its present form.

PHILIP WHITELEGG Saxonhurst Close, Northbourne