Tycoon Sir Gordon Wu Ying-sheung has submitted his resignation from the post of council chairman of City University in a bid to avoid a controversy over an appeal hearing on his Mega Tower project in Wan Chai.
He made the decision last week after the Town Planning Appeal Board informed him of the date of the hearing and composition of the appeal panel - which would be chaired by Anthony Cooray, a professor at City University's law school.
The Hopewell Holdings' chairman said: 'It is a very sad decision. But it is inevitable. Otherwise, if the appeal outcome favours the project, I will face accusations of collusion or allegations of conflict of interest.
'I sought legal advice and was told I didn't have to resign because I had no command over the law school and its personnel. I don't want to give anyone any excuse to say I won because of my relationship with City University.'
A spokeswoman for City University confirmed Sir Gordon's resignation, but said she was 'in no position' to confirm the date on which it became effective.
The university was 'awaiting a new appointment by Chief Executive' Donald Tsang Yam-kuen, she added.
'We regret Sir Gordon's decision to resign as council chairman but we understand the reasons and respect his decision,' she said. 'He has devoted considerable time and energy to the university's affairs and issues and he will be sorely missed by staff and students.'