At its Tuesday meeting, the council unanimously voted to urge education minister Adrian Piccoli to delay the impending auction of the education department land.

Seven lots, with one lot more than five hectares in size, are slated to go under the hammer next month.

Putting forward the motion, Cr John Nell said the “integrity” of the entire nature reserve was put at risk by the sale.

The council will demand the government carry out flora and fauna studies to determine the best use of the site. While there are strict environmental restrictions on the land, many fear it will be rezoned for development.

Cr Nell questioned why the government was even pursuing the sale given the possible poor return.