SIR - We were extremely concerned to read in the Hampshire Chronicle that the county council is considering changes to the Tower Arts Centre in Winchester.

It is proposed that the venue will not continue in its present form and under the current management.

We also understand that there is an embargo on creating a programme beyond December this year.

Apparently discussions have been under way for some time, although this has not been brought to the attention of the public until now.

We are disappointed that neither the county nor city councils have sought the views of their constituents on this topic.

The venue is very popular and well used, and has a unique atmosphere highly valued by audiences and artists alike. Events and activities cater for a wide range of interests, abilities and age groups, all made possible by the friendly and efficient staff under the inspirational leadership of John Tellet, centre director.

We believe that the suggestion of passing the Tower over to the Kings School, while clearly attractive to a popular school which may have aspirations to expand, will dilute the ethos of the venue. Coupled with the loss of the current management team we would have no confidence that the services currently offered would continue.

Clearly there is a need to promote full use of the controversial and expensive Discovery Centre, but we are very concerned that fragmenting a winning formula is too great a risk.

The lack of parking at this venue is also a negative.

As we understand that a final decision may not be taken until as late as September, the centre may be unable to offer a new programme from January due to the lead time required to book artists. This rather gives the impression that the decision has actually already been agreed.

We have set up an e-petition to the PM to galvanise public support where we encourage readers to register their opposition to the proposals.

It is regrettable that neither the county nor the city council appears to offer this facility.

Lynda and Miles Banister, Pine Close, Oliver's Battery.