Sir –The article by Reg Little on the Oxford Brookes University planning application (September 24) is misleading. The council did not “throw out” the redevelopment plans. The planning application was refused because of concerns about the impact of the very high building very close to the boundary on the neighbouring conservation area and on neighbouring houses.

Because the council is not allowed to redesign a building and then approve the revised design the only option if one aspect of an application is regarded as unacceptable is to reject the application. It is then for the applicant to decide either to appeal or to submit a revised application.

The opportunity to have a “modern Brookes” has been delayed but not lost.

The concern of residents about the “student colonisation” of Headington is a separate issue not related to the planning application.

Clark Brundin, City councillor — North Ward, Oxford