I was amazed at the cost and scale of the new Islamic Centre for Islamic Studies currently being built on the banks of the River Cherwell. But why do we need such a centre?

Surely studying the Muslim faith at any of Oxford’s perfectly suitable colleges would suffice without the expense of the new project, and its Muslim architecture – consequently more fitting amid a Bollywood film set than Oxford, city of dreaming spires.

The associated institute of Oxford University’s aim is to encourage the study of the Islam world and its culture, but the audacious and unpopular project is clearly waving a flag for the Muslim faith – it may be classed as a first class academic institution, and additionally an international institution, but it should never have seen the light of day, and is so obviously out of step with British architecture – nevertheless Prince Charles, a discerning fan of British architecture, supports the project. Why?

Furthermore, Britain’s rich historical heritage should be celebrated and encouraged too: Maybe a proposed university of English studies can be funded and built in Saudi Arabia, with universal funding, no finance limit, and built to the exact specifications of Brasenose College!

However, £50m has been spent on the 325-acre project and although not UK funded, our own government is being persuaded to contribute to a shortfall totalling £25m – contributions that would benefit a huge number of more worthwhile causes closer to home.

For example: medical equipment for our under-financed health service, and better funding for our brave soldiers fighting a worthless war in Afghanistan.

DAVID TINSON, Moorland Road, Witney