Winery to close unless cabins approved

An Upper Hunter winery proposing to build more than 20 tourist cabins on its property is warning it will be forced to close if the development is not approved.

United Pastoral Pty Ltd's plans to build 23 tourist cabins at the former Arrowfield Winery at Denman will return to Muswellbrook Shire Council tonight.

The proposed development has faced opposition from neighbouring horse studs Darley and Coolmore, which have likened the cabins to a 'mine camp', as well as the nearby Drayton Mine which is worried the cabins could threaten future coal extraction in the area.

Hollydene Estate in Denman says it will likely close if a proposal to build tourist cabins on its site is rejected.

The company representing the winery, RHM Consulting Engineers, has made a final response to submissions, labelling the concerns 'ridiculous and unfounded'.

It says the proponent has already made significant changes to the original development application to meet all of the Coolmore Stud's concerns.

"The inability of this development to proceed is likely to see the permanent closure of the existing facilities on the site," the company said.

"It is critical to provide a minimum amount of accommodation (together with the small chapels) to support the business."

Council's Planning Director has recommended councillors approve the DA subject to conditions that will prevent any nuisance being caused to other residents in the area.

Source: ABC News, 11 March 2013