The council decided on Monday to draft a media release summarising information already on public record in relation to the development but that might not be enough to please Friends of Dorset Reserve spokesman Steve Coombe.

“It’s not what’s on the public record that’s the issue,” Mr Coombe said.

“It’s very difficult to get information on what is happening behind closed doors.”

“So far as I’m concerned if they released the information tomorrow it wouldn’t be soon enough.”

Friends of Dorset Reserve have steadfastly opposed the development of the 250 metre by 250m block, which they say is home to more than 100 species of native flora and fauna, and could not be replaced once lost.

Murray Bridge council has discussed the Dorset Reserve issue several times in the past two years but most of its discussions have taken place confidentially for commercial and legal reasons.

An appeal against the development of the Dorset Reserve into housing blocks is currently before the Environment, Resources and Development Court and the council has had numerous discussions with developers that could involve sensitive commercial information.

Upon receipt of a petition with more than 200 signatures calling for the release of information as to the status of the development and the sale of Dorset Reserve on Monday, Cr Bob England moved to prepare a press release before the end of the financial year.