Sir – 2009 has been a good year for the city of lost causes. Bonn Square, and the Ashmolean Museum, both excellent public facilities and, on a smaller and more intimate scale, the delightful rural fence around the green at Upper Wolvercote. Congratulations to all concerned.

Now the city has found its touch, let me suggest the following projects for 2010, so that the momentum is maintained.

New Bodleian Library improvements, creation of a canal basin by Nuffield College, concert hall and gallery by the River Thames at Oxpens and the upgrading of Broad Street as a worthy meeting place for visitors and residents alike.

For too long Oxford has punched below its weight. Let it follow the example of cities like Birmingham, Newcastle and Manchester, which have recovered their civic pride and identity by producing some inspirational architecture and public spaces.

John Thompson, Secretary, Forest of Oxford, Oxford