OTHR sought council’s endorsement and help as the organisation considers applying for a Heritage Near Me funding grant for the project along the existing rail corridor.

But landowner Robert Webb, whose property is adjacent to the rail corridor, addressed council and said all this had been discussed before.

"You may recall that the creation of an Oberon to Tarana walking track was discussed heavily in 2004,” he said.

"After extensive consultation, it was clear that such a project was not feasible given the adverse impact it would have on adjoining farming businesses. 

"The consultative process saw some very robust debate from farmers who felt that their livelihoods were at real threat from a poorly thought-out walking track proposal. 

"We understood that no such track would go ahead for the foreseeable future."

Mayor Kathy Sajowitz explained that it was only council support that was being sought.

"It's not a certainty that OTHR would get the Heritage Near Me funding grant worth up to $100,000," Cr Sajowitz said.

OTHR president Tim Arnison said the funding opportunity was bought to the group’s attention and it would provide an opportunity to get that section of railway restored.

"It's a steep heritage area and we need access to the track - we need to see if we can get a grant," he said.

Cr Clive McCarthy said he would like to see the current section finished before any more sections were started.

"We must have consultation with landholders," he said.

Cr Ian Doney said he supported the OTHR project and it was a valuable asset to Oberon, but landowners’ consent was paramount.

Council is the licence holder over the rail corridor through an agreement with the Rail Authority and it sub leases to OTHR.

The recommendation to support the funding application was defeated by councillors.