The four-hectare site off Drualla Road is located behind Jamberoo Public School and adjoins the historic St Matthew’s Catholic Church and cemetery.

The majority of lots are between 800 and 1000 square metres, with a handful of larger lot sizes proposed.

The council received submissions from 36 objectors and two people in support.

Concerns included that the subdivision was an overdevelopment of the site, the Jamberoo township had limited facilities, services, medical care and transport and   amenity would be compromised.

Concerns were also raised the development would be a ‘‘hindrance’’ to the enjoyment of the congregation if dwellings overlooked the church site and that the view from the church would be lost as a result of the development.

In response, council staff said neighbouring lots in Downes Place approved in 1992 were smaller than the lots proposed and, rather than putting pressure on existing services, it would actually create an incentive for business to set up in Jamberoo.

The council said the topography of the site and landscaping would limit overlooking opportunities, while view impacts from the church could not be avoided.

Kiama Mayor Brian Petschler said the site had been zoned for redevelopment for many years.

‘‘On planning grounds, I think the response of the officers was correct,’’ he said.

Councillors did, however, resolve not to open up the link though to Downes Place to vehicles.

Meantime, Kiama councillors deferred a decision on a 34-dwelling Torrens title subdivision in Elimatta Place, Kiama, with further talks to take place to discuss a possible a cul-de-sac.