LWP Property Group managing director Danny Murphy visited the region this week to explain that his company was moving ahead with its appeal against the NSW Land and Environment Court’s judgment declaring the rezoning of the development near Branxton invalid.

On July 7 the NSW Land and Environment Court ruled in favour of the Sweetwater Action Group by upholding its appeal against the development. The NSW Court of Appeal has made orders expediting the hearing of proceedings that will take place on November 4.

Mr Murphy met with Singleton mayor Sue Moore, Cessnock mayor Alison Davey, Member for Cessnock Clayton Barr and the Friends of Huntlee group to update them on the company’s latest position.

‘‘We believe we have a strong case and remain committed to the Huntlee development and the local community,’’ Mr Murphy said.

‘‘We are also pleased that the NSW government has decided to appeal.’’

Huntlee will be the first new town for the Hunter in almost 50 years and will provide up to 7500 houses, 3000 permanent jobs and 200hectares of employment land over a 20-year development program.

Asked about Cr Jeff Maybury’s recent question at a council meeting on how the council could assist LWP with its appeal, Mr Murphy said it highlighted the fact that Huntlee would play an important role in the economic development of the Cessnock area.

In a report to tonight’s Cessnock council meeting, the group leader of strategy and sustainability Louise Gee said it was paramount that the council’s role as an assessment authority (pending the outcome of the appeal) not be compromised by giving assistance to LWP.

‘‘Council must always ensure that its assessment of proposals is transparent and in accordance with its role as an approval authority,’’ Ms Gee said.