The main concerns raised were the water and sewerage for the proposed lots and the visual impact on neighbouring properties. The residents also requested an on-site inspection by councillors.

A spokesperson from the newly-formed committee which is opposing the subdivision said they received a fair hearing.

“We still maintain the project is much too dense as two-thirds of the lots will be under two hectares in size,” the spokesperson said.

"Council must be very careful to preserve what we have in Oberon as residents are concerned that neighbouring land values would drop.

"We presented a petition opposing the development to council with 70 signatures but we were told this accounts for only one submission. Those who signed must send in their own submission.

"I have been told people are moving to Oberon, rather than the Southern Highlands, because of the larger lots and spacious living style. We have also requested that council do a visual impact assessment before any decision is made."

Peter and Desley Loftus' 61-hectare property on Burroughs Crossing Road, east of the proposed development, has direct views across the Duckmaloi River valley to the development.

"We purchased ‘Parada Hills’ 11 years ago. We've built our home and along with running cattle, we have planted 4500 trees to develop our trufferie,” Mr Loftus said.

"Our intention is to welcome visitors to Oberon for a unique experience in truffle hunting and to eventually provide some sort of accommodation for the full country experience. People do not come from the city to overlook a housing estate.

"We originally selected Oberon because of the natural beauty in the area. If this development goes ahead we will have to rethink any future developments.

"Any way you look at it, this will have a negative impact on us - as it will on all rural landholders. This development, in regards to water and sewerage, could eventually become a health issue."