Sir – Oxford Brookes University is a real force for good in our city, county and region and we sometimes need to remind ourselves of its value.

As Pro Chancellor — that’s Shami Chakrabarti’s deputy — and past chairman of governors I am enormously proud to be associated with this outstanding institution.

The university makes a major contribution to the economy and culture of the area through its outstanding staff, students and alumni.

The one thing that has let down Oxford Brookes University has been the quality and state of its buildings.

To its great credit, the University has proposed a scheme that will transform the site rather than just adding piecemeal to the existing structures.

The new buildings will provide an impressive and welcoming gateway to both the University and the city, as well as many vital new facilities for staff, students and the local community.

I know that the university has made huge efforts to consult as widely as possibly, putting on an exhibition of the plans and holding meetings on and off the campus. The university genuinely wants to hear people’s reactions and views.

I hope that the city council will see the great merit in the proposals and back them.

Danby Bloch, Pro-Chancellor, Oxford Brookes University