I have been a consistent attender of Brecon Cathedral for almost 30 years. It is with sadness that I say that I no longer feel welcome there. Others may feel the same.

Perhaps, in my case this is because I have been a critic of the project which has just received a boost from the National Lottery Heritage Fund in the form of a grant to develop the scheme further.

To spend around half a million pounds to ensure that everyone can enter through the one new entrance, which is to be carved through a medieval wall, is extravagant and architecturally controversial. To succeed, it needs to win strong support from a wide number of citizens of Brecon.

There are other aspects of the project which are also questionable at this time of tight finances. Consultation has been meagre so far and the proponents defensive. The Dean and Chapter have relied on paid experts, so that at the one open meeting held, those present were told what would happen and not asked if they were in favour. The NLHF has given the Dean and Chapter two years to present the completed plans for approval. and thereby gain a grant which must be matched locally to go ahead.

To avoid further disquiet, there needs to be a full and open discussion on the merits of the project, as stipulated by NLHF. It should involve all interested persons and should include the many who do not regularly attend but are nevertheless proud of our Cathedral.

Extensive communication by the Dean and Chapter will be essential and all financially realistic alternatives to be considered thoroughly.

Peter Jenkins

Brecon