MADAM, It seems most people dislike the current proposals but are unanimous in the belief that High Town desperately needs 'something'.

Herefordshire is a unique county and this is our opportunity to create a centre-piece, which represents us. It could be our 21st century contribution to 700 years of architectural evolution. We need a structure that will somehow link the medieval origins of the country and our need to look forward.

Ideally it would be a building that is aesthetically inspiring but will continue to mellow and embrace its environs for centuries to come.

We should be wary of anything too radical but should also avoid anything too retrospective. And if we are serious about making Hereford a 'city of crafts' we should be using Herefordshire craftsmen and designers.

Some have mentioned the old market hall. An oak framed structure, perhaps with contemporary detailing and craftsmen made features would endeavour to bridge the gap between The Oak House and the ugly 1960s and 70s structures. It would acknowledge the market hall that was demolished but not replicate it as some revisionist homage.

Oak structures weather beautifully and will last for centuries. A new oak building would be a great testament to Herefordshire's rich and unrivalled architectural heritage .

I would also suggest a serious landscaping project to give High Town 'lungs' and to break up the depressing concrete.

We have, in Herefordshire, incredibly talented architects, designers, landscape architects and craftsmen. Herefordshire leads the world in green oak framing with an unrivalled wealth of skilled designers and craftsmen so let's use them.

MERRY ALBRIGHT,

East Street, Pembridge.