Councillors voted unanimously to block the divisive development which had garnered a great deal of interest from golfers, nearby residents, real estate agents and former civic leaders alike.

The overarching concern among councillors and other naysayers was the proximity to the “nationally significant” AELEC and the developing Northern Inland Sporting Centre of Excellence.

While councillors were all opposed to the Longyard development, some locals saw merit in the proposal.

Professionals Tamworth principal Michael Jackson said there was a demand for the type of accommodation proposed.

“I operate in five shires in all our businesses, and to be perfectly honest, Tamworth is the envy of all others,” Mr Jackson said.

“Other regional towns look at council and the people of Tamworth, and they’ll be wondering what they could do.

“To knock this on the head would be a missed opportunity.”

Longyard resident Larissa Nelson wanted the development to go ahead and held fears about the viability of the area.

She said her property would lose value if the golf course closed as a result of having the development nixed which was met with small applause from the public gallery.

Councillor Russell Webb said the decision would divide the community regardless of the outcome.

Click here to read full story