A college head at the centre of a superstore row has resigned ahead of the multi-million pound planning application.

John Robinson, principal of Worthing College, urged opponents of the scheme not to read anything into the timing.

The college has joined forces with Asda to build a supermarket on its Bolsover Road site, sparking outrage among those living nearby.

Opponents believe the £15 million store, employing more than 400 people, would kill off existing shops.

They have deluged Worthing Borough Council with more than 2,500 letters expressing concerns about extra congestion, noise and disturbance.

The college remains adamant the only way to improve its facilities is to sell off the land, using the proceeds to build a modern complex.

Borough planners are expected to debate the application, one of the most contentious in the past decade, on April 27.

Mr Robinson, 54, who leaves in August, said: "It is not ideal timing but these things happen. My going has got absolutely nothing to do with Asda.

"I anticipate people who are trying to speak against our project might try to make the connection but it is absolutely and totally untrue."

Mr Robinson said he was "totally committed" to the Asda project and would not slacken off over the summer.

He admitted the fallout from the row had been bruising but said it was part of the job.

He said: "The most important thing for the college and education in Worthing is that we are a strong and vibrant college which can meet educational needs in the town.

"The only impediments to the college's ability to achieve its goals are the relatively poor buildings and facilities."

Mr Robinson plans to become an educational consultant and pursue his personal interest in writing.

He said the governors had already started looking for a replacement.