Sir, – The case against a multiplex cinema as part of the East Street development is cogently expressed by the Farnham Society (Herald, November 25). This also mentions the alternative of a smaller facility. It is understood that the younger generation is "anxious" to have a cinema (Herald, December 23). Perhaps speaking for some other adults, I also would welcome a cinema locally which could be visited from time to time. Any survey undertaken resulting in favour of a cinema would have carried more weight if it had included an assurance from those who responded that they would support it regularly, something which I personally could not guarantee. In this context, the previous demise of the cinemas in Farnham and Aldershot should not be overlooked. In considering the needs of our younger people, a comparison could be drawn between the smaller capacity of the cinema in Alton and the multiplex in Guildford. My visiting grandchildren have on occasion been to see the latest films in either one of these cinemas and seem to have no preference for the garish surroundings and tawdry merchandising characteristic of the multiplex. I suggest a better example should be shown to our young people. With the issue now in the open, the portfolio holder can say positively which sort of cinema will be appropriate for Farnham and our MP, who I understand, holds a watching brief can express his opinion also. A clear statement now would avoid any mistaken impression of evasion. Of course it does not end there. The Farnham Society has pointed out the effect on the historic character of the town. It is also questionable how much the residents of Farnham will wish to support restaurants and shops additional to those already here. Arguably, after banks and house agents, the largest category of retail outlet is charity shops. The effect on the existing shopping area appears unpredictable. My only source of recent information is the press but the overall impression given is that a serious fault line, if not an actual dichotomy, exists between the interests of Farnham and the ambitions of Waverley. It would appear that the latter hopes for an additional boost of capital, possibly to be spent elsewhere and a large increase of rateable value. While these objectives are not reprehensible in themselves, they are likely to be to the detriment of the town and residents of Farnham. If it is not the proposed intention to set up in competition with, shall we say, Camberley with its shopping complex and Guildford with shopping, entertainment and club scene, then the objective should be defined in specific terms. Note also, the attraction to tourism has been mentioned. No doubt this should be encouraged but the reported closure of the tourist office exposes a curious inconsistency. In conclusion, let us not forget that the initiative for development was first motivated by the hasty demolition of the old cinema and the lamentable street scene to the north of East Street, the latter having been conveniently abandoned in favour of the soft underbelly on the south side. John Bower, Old Compton Lane, Farnham