Oh dear, oh dear a raw nerve has clearly been hit so far as Cllr. Martin Goss is concerned regarding the Cultural Quarter plans.

His letter 'The loony left are full of hot air about the Alumno plans' (Gazette 5th September) clearly indicates that Colchester council are somewhat rattled by the strength of public opinion against this scheme.

I feel that a music venue capable of hosting touring shows and concerts should be incorporated. This would sit nicely between Firstsite and the Curzon cinema and would be a great asset to the town.

I appreciate that private funding will be required but other towns and cities, some much smaller than Colchester, have concert halls a facility glaringly lacking in our town.

Looking at Alumno's website I see that they included a theatre in their Peckham project. I emailed Alumno suggesting that they provide a music venue between Firstsite and the Curzon cinema. I appreciate that this will need to sit

alongside some element of student accommodation. I copied in Cllr Tim Young - no reply as yet from either Alumno or the councillor. Student accommodation in this area is not something I want and I cannot say whether or my suggestion will be acceptable to those protesting against the plans but it may be in the spirit of compromise.

Before any further action is taken there should be a full council meeting to discuss the matter and take a vote. There have been far too many 'mess ups' in this area for any decision to be left solely to the cabinet.

Norman Bailey

31 Cambridge Road, Colchester