SIR – On visiting the town centre recently, my wife and I were asked our views on the city for feedback to Council Leader, David Green.

Our response was mainly concerning lack of progress on the city centre project, like many other concerned Bradfordians.

Now I have had time to give serious thought to Bradford’s problems, may I humbly offer the following suggestions?

Right on our doorstep is a busy, thriving city that never tires or trying to improve itself, Leeds. It has lots of excellent-quality shops, shopping malls and arcades and up-market restaurants and hotels.

During my career in design, I would always ask advice from others with experience, to impart their knowledge to me.

Therefore, Mr Green, for what it’s worth, perhaps ‘Queen of Shops’ Mary Portas, hotel inspector Alex Polizzi and Leeds City Council could provide invaluable advice and information.

When I have enquired why a shop was closing, the retailer would tell me the landlord has not only put up their rent, but increased the period of the lease.

Can’t Bradford Council find a way of imposing more realistic time scales of a maximum of two to three years; thereby helping to retain retailers?

Pinning our hopes on the Westfield project, if and when it is finally completed, may not be the salvation we are hoping for. Something needs to be done before it is too late.

Bob Milling, Sapgate Lane, Thornton