In a report prepared for councillors ahead of Tuesday’s meeting, staff supported the planning application from development company ACE, which includes Wodonga mayor Anna Speedie as one of its directors.

A decision will be made at Tuesday’s night’s meeting.

The land on Tanswell Street Beechworth has a total area of 6830 square metres.

The report acknowledges some of the concerns made by objectors to the subdivision including impacts on tourism and the historic nature of Beechworth, and use of the Chinese Gardens car park by residents.

“It is acknowledged that developing the site at an urban density will change the ambiance of the site and will affect the views across the site from adjoining properties and the public domain,” the report stated.

“However it is not the role of the planning system to maintain the status quo in terms of the existing levels of amenity.”

Beechworth resident Heidi Freeman said she was disappointed with the council staff recommendation as the land was “once was a prized green belt”.

“Once our heritage is chipped at, the town’s uniqueness and integrity is lost forever. The ambiance and fabric will be lost and the once historic town will look like another town like Wodonga,” she said.

“By approving this alien development in the centre of our historic town, you are allowing an irresponsible footprint for future generations and many tourists and locals will wonder why this was ever allowed.”

Indigo Council held two planning focus meetings attended by about about 20 objectors, but Ms Freeman described them as “a total waste of time when developers are head strong in making a profit under the guise of having a ‘respectful’ development”.

The Indigo Council meeting will be held at the council chambers in Beechworth on Tuesday from 6.30pm.