SIR – Mr Mac Ruairi, regeneration director for the Council (T&A, March 16), tells us that there is now a department of 850 people in regeneration. Really? Is that number necessary, even accepting that some departments have merged?

One hopes that they haven’t been paid any performance bonuses! It also seems the team previously with Bradford Centre Regeneration has relocated to the Council. Considering the jaundiced view that many people had of BCR, was this wise?

Mike Cowlam, the assistant director, says the New Victoria Place development, that so few wish to see happen, will overlook the City Park and “the view will be phenomenal”. What a pity the view looking towards the building will be just the opposite.

In the meantime, why has Bradford Council not insisted that Yorkshire Forward maintain the Odeon building in an acceptable state, especially considering its position?

The cynical view is that the more it is allowed to deteriorate, the more justification there is towards demolition, despite widespread opposition.

Physical regeneration is also about people, says Mr Cowlan. How, then, can our views be disregarded while the Council carries on regardless? Our current Council leaders should hang their heads in shame.

Bob Watson, Springfield Road, Baildon