The future of the body that oversees the development of a government growth area has been called into question after the resignation of its head.

Martin Bacon, managing director of Ashford’s Future, resigned after pornography was discovered on his computer.

Paul Clokie, the leader of Ashford council in Kent, said: “As a result of his actions he started to bring the council into disrepute.”

A South East England Development Agency spokesman said: “We confirm that Martin Bacon recently resigned his position. It would not be appropriate to discuss details of staff matters further.”

Roger Humber, a consultant who has represented local landowners and housebuilders in negotiations with Ashford’s Future, said that the organisation ought to be wound up because it was powerless.