A long-awaited pedestrian crossing, paid for in developer contributions, will still open in Herne Bay despite Sainsbury's sensationally revealing they are pulling out of the town.

Bosses behind plans for the 100,000 sq ft superstore had pledged to build the crossing alongside Blacksole Bridge as part of a redevelopment of the town centre.

But the £2.2m of planned improvements were thrown into doubt yesterday when supermarket bosses announced they are pulling the plug on Herne Bay.

Council leader Simon Cook said: "We have only just been notified of Sainsbury’s decision not to open its store in Herne Bay at the moment and we will be seeking an early discussion with the developer to understand more about the implications and future plans.

"Although it is a shame that we won’t be welcoming Sainsbury’s to Herne Bay at this point, the council remains fully committed to the large and exciting programme of improvements planned for the town including the opening of the new Aldi store and public realm and parking improvements together with other new developments in place.

"We have already received a significant amount of funding for many of these developments and the new Blacksole Bridge will be opening this spring.

The new bridge - which is expected to open late next month - will cross the railway and link the Altira Business Park with Beltinge and Mickleburgh Hill.

The 51-metre structure is being built off site and will be lifted into place late this month.

It will then undergo a number of other works before opening in late April.