The jewel in Muswellbrook's heritage crown, Skellatar House, may become a hidden gem if a proposed aged care development is approved by Muswellbrook council in its current form.
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Councillors were undecided on the development that will surround the historic site, particularly Cr Janelle Risby.
She launched a campaign to preserve the town's heritage, especially Skellatar House, which she said was the town's principle landmark.
Cr Risby asked planners for more information on local government guidelines for seniors' developments and wanted an independent heritage study on the site.
The development application seeks approval for 42 self-contained dwellings and a community hall on land in Fitzgerald Avenue, Muswellbrook.
The matter was deferred for a second time at a council meeting in late August so more information could be obtained and brought back to a meeting this month.
"My concern is that we have to preserve what heritage we have in Muswellbrook and Skellatar House is our principal landmark," Cr Risby said. "It will be blocked out of view and most won't be able to see it if this high density development goes ahead in its current form."
Skellatar House was designed by Edmund Blacket in 1883 and built on one of the first local land grants, made in 1825 to Francis Forbes. The house was once part of a 270-hectare estate.
- Donna Sharpe
