His deputy Amanda Cohn has a motion before Monday night’s council meeting calling for a “safe access zone” to be formed around the Englehardt Street clinic.

“At this point I am considering my options," Cr Mack said yesterday.

“There is some doubt about the enforceability of the notice (of motion).

“I wouldn’t at all be surprised if that landscape changes by Monday."

Councillors Darren Cameron and Henk van de Ven have questioned how such a zone would be enforced.

Cr Cameron said under the Local Government Act a ranger could only give a fine of $110 and was unable to move on protesters.

Cr van de Ven said only one fine could be issued per day.

Cr Cohn pointed to legal advice given to NSW Greens MLC David Shoebridge by barrister Jane Needham SC.

It noted a maximum fine of 10 penalty units, equating to $1100, would apply.

But that would only be enforced if court action was taken after a $110 fine had been issued.

Under Ms Needham’s proposal four restrictions would apply in the 150-metre area around the clinic. 

They include bans on threatening behaviour, communication related to abortion and recording of those entering the clinic.

Interfering with footpath and road access near the clinic would also be outlawed.

Cr Cohn’s motion is being supported by colleagues Murray King, David Thurley, John Stuchbery.

“I’ll support it but not for the ideological theories of a couple of other councillors that are diametrically opposed to the family planning clinic,” Cr King said.

“It’s solely related to ratepayers going about their business with a feeling of comfort and not being impeded.”

Councillor Graham Docksey is joining Cr Cameron and Cr van de Ven in opposing the zone, while former mayor Alice Glachan has not replied to The Border Mail.