Penguin pool, restored in 1987 © John Allan

• AS the architect responsible for the restoration of the penguin pool in the 1980s (and also as Berthold Lubetkin’s biographer) may I offer some comments on your piece, (Unhappy Feet: Lubetkin daughter’s ‘sadness’ at iconic penguin pool left unused, January 4).

The original poolside paving was largely rubber, deliberately specified by Lubetkin for the comfort of the penguins, but this was later replaced by the zoo with concrete.

The original birds were an Antarctic species which preferred to huddle together, but these were also later replaced with South American Humboldts which prefer to burrow, thus making the original nesting quarters less suitable.

In the restoration project we were required to apply a layer of quartz granules to the ramp surfaces for the benefit of the keepers, but to the discomfort to the penguins who have some practice in walking on slippery surfaces.

As for the suggestion that Lubetkin’s masterpiece be “blown to smithereens” I trust that its Grade I-listed status will preclude such vandalism and that it will continue to be enjoyed as an aquatic sculpture even if unoccupied. It’s not always a building’s fault that it becomes unsuitable.

JOHN ALLAN
Retired Architect, Coleridge Road, N8