The application has been made by J.R. and A.G. King, who want to create 16 lots of at least 40 hectares, three lots of 10 a hectares (existing concessional lots) and one of 38.19 hectares.

Council's Senior Environmental Surveyor, Mr. Warren Allen, in a report to last week's Council meeting, recommended approval of the subdivision.

Mr. Allen said the development complied with the requirements of the Mulwaree Local Environment Plan.

Consent did not permit commencement of construction of dwellings, for which approve plans must be obtained.

A number of conditions would apply, including effluent management, electricity supply, drainage, run-off and erosion control, retention of remnant vegetation.

Mr. Allen said the Section 94 contribution required for the development would total $174,199.

Cr. Charlie Prell said he could not see that the issues involved had been addressed pro-actively, such as water supply.

Mr. Allen said domestic water supply would be from roof catchment.

Cr. Prell: "I'm not sure this complies with public interest. There is no justification in the report for stating that it complies with suitability of site and for the development."

Mr. Allen: "It complies with the requirements."

Cr. Prell: "Public interest is up to us to determine. This is a significant development, and probably headed nowhere except the court if we refuse it."

Cr. Brian Moloney expressed concern on who would be responsible to policing the conditions that applied to the future, such as vegetation and stream protection.

Cr. Prell moved that in the intention of gaining further information, Council defer a decision until its next ordinary meeting.

"I'm not in a position to make a decision today," he said.

Cr. Bill Martin seconded the motion, saying he was "not happy" with the subdivision and needed further information.

Cr. Moloney added: "We should also establish whether we are the authority to see that ongoing conditions are met."

The motion was carried unanimously.