The decision followed a visit to the Valla site, and approval is subject to a schedule of conditions.

Councillors were made well aware of community concerns with two residents, Susan Jenvey and Vicki Pade, speaking to the meeting.

The applicant, Brad Fortescue, also spoke, assuring those present the proposed development covered only two per cent of the farmland and that all complaints would be taken on board.

Councillors John Ainsworth, Elaine South, Brian Finlayson and Bob Morrison voted in favour of the motion to grant development consent.

Councillors Paula Flack and Martin Ballangarry registered their votes against.

Cr Flack said the development did not comply with council’s Local Environment Plan. Cr Ballangarry said prime agricultural land should remain as farmland.

After the decision Susan Jenvey told the Guardian she did not believe the location was right for this type of development.

“That council agreed to pass this I find unbelievable,” Ms Jenvey said.

“Rural land hasn’t been safeguarded and the viability of agriculture has been brought into question as a means for this business to exist in this location.

“This further disenfranchises Valla residents.”