New college boss but old resolve on Asda scheme

Peter Corrigan, assistant deputy principal at the Bolsover Road college, was this week named as John Robinson's successor and told the Herald: "I have a rock-solid commitment to making this happen. We here at the college think the case is really strong and we want to pursue it as far as we can. If it is turned down, we will go to appeal."

He believes the multi-million-pound plans to sell part of the college site to Asda in return for a state-of-the-art college will finally come before Worthing council's planning commitee in July.

"Everything is now in place for a decision on the project," he said.

"The proposals have the backing of Sport England regarding sports facilities, West Sussex County Council for the road improvements and new traffic system, and the Learning and Skills Council for the need to build a new college. We are confident of a positive outcome which will allow us to secure accommodation fit for 21st century further education to meet the aspirations of young people and the wider community of Worthing."

Mr Robinson, who is leaving the college after nearly 12 years, said: "The controversy in this case is out of proportion to the number of people really against the plans. The Field Place Area Residents' Association has been a very effective opposition group and we have to give them credit but they represent a tiny minority. The majority of people in Worthing either don't care or are for the plans."

Mr Robinson said the whole project represented a 35million investment in Worthing.

"This is the biggest ever investment in this town and it really needs it," he told the Herald.

"The whole issue has been politicised but I trust the borough to deal with it properly."

Mr Corrigan has been at the college for 18 years and started his career there as a politics teacher.

He officially takes over when the new academic year starts in September and will be at the helm if the college has to launch an appeal or if the decision goes to a public inquiry.

Rod Winter, of Field Place Area Residents' Association, said: "We rather expected they would go to appeal if the application was turned down. We have just to wait and see what happens when the application comes before the commitee."