The Archbishop of Canterbury has expressed his sadness over the resignation of the Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral.

The Rt Rev Graeme Knowles stepped down after four years in the role amid mounting criticism over his handling of the Occupy London Stock Exchange protest in front of the building.

Explaining his decision, the Dean said the past fortnight had been a “testing time” and that his position in the cathedral had become “increasingly untenable” in light of the criticism.

Dr Rowan Williams paid tribute to Knowles, saying he would be “much missed”.

Responding to his resignation, the Archbishop spoke of the need to show understanding to the clergy of St Paul’s, two of whom had already stepped down prior to the Dean.

“The events of the last couple of weeks have shown very clearly how decisions made in good faith by good people under unusual pressure can have utterly unforeseen and unwelcome consequences,” said the Archbishop.

“Graeme Knowles has been a very distinguished Dean of St Paul’s, who has done a great deal to strengthen the pastoral and intellectual life of the cathedral and its involvement in the life of London.

“The urgent larger issues raised by the protesters at St Paul’s remain very much on the table and we need – as a church and as society as a whole – to work to make sure that they are properly addressed.”

Speaking on behalf of the cathedral chapter, the Rt Rev Michael Colclough paid tribute to the “dedication, diligence and pastoral care” shown by Knowles in his time as dean.

“We received news of his resignation with a heavy heart after one of the most challenging weeks in the recent history of this great cathedral,” he said.

“His time at St Paul’s has energised and encouraged us all by his unique, approachable way of combining focused leadership with a pastoral heart.

“This combination has also made him a widely-loved ambassador for the Christian faith and for the work of St Paul’s.

“We will miss him deeply.”