SIR – Segregation of communities in Bradford has been a persistent topic of controversy for decades. A number of studies in the past have presented conflicting evidence about whether it has changed little or there is a gradual but encouraging reduction in it.

The latest ONS figures published in T&A (October 3) clearly show only a broad picture of concentration of “Non-white” groups in the local population.

The figures of 63, 46 and 21 percentage points of “Non-whites” concentrated in the West, East and South parliamentary constituencies respectively displays a stark variations, but little comfort.

The figure for Shipley being only 7.5 raises the question that a more realistic picture of physical, ethnic and cultural segregation can only be assessed by examining the data at wards level.

The published data raises serious issues about the potential variations in the life chances of different groups depending on where they live and how densely they are located. Furthermore, segregation whether it is racial or ethnic has serious outcomes for “Non-white” citizens’ economic and social mobility. It also has potential implications for inter-community cohesion.

The segregation issue needs serious considerations in devising local policies of economic regeneration if the city is to save itself of long-term consequences.

Dr Ramindar Singh MBE, Chatsworth Road, Pudsey