David Daines spoke out last week about a 37-lot housing estate being development by the Anglican Church, on a site of historical significance near the heritage listed Glebe Cemetery at East Maitland.

Maitland Council approved the development but councillors Mitchell Griffin, Don Ferris and Sally Halliday voted against the proposal.

Mr Daines hopes these councillors will champion a cause to celebrate Maitland's heritage, document the city's past and 'advertise' historic sites such as the one earmarked for the 37 lots.

Council had no choice but to approve the development application for lots 1 and 2 George Street, East Maitland - the site of the State's last Aboriginal corroboree, the original main road from Sydney and the city's first police barracks.

It adjoins what is believed to be one of NSW's, possibly the country's oldest cemeteries, Glebe Cemetery, the final resting place of some of our first pioneers - Francis Greenway believed to be one.

The 16 hectare site has been part of the Anglican Church's portfolio for well over 100 years and was originally zoned Primary Production until the council of 2014 rezoned it to Residential.

"There should be something in that area to highlight the historical aspect of this site," Mr Daines said.

"Maitland heritage and history is not promoted enough.

"What about celebrating it through a heritage week or weekend," Mr Daines asked.

"I don't think council promotes this sort of thing enough," he said.

Mr Daines said he is open to suggestions but hoped councillors would get on board and promote the city's beginnings.

"Developers are demolishing our heritage buildings and that's just not right - not good enough," he said.

"There has to be a promotion.

"We have Steamfest and there should be some sort of promotion of an historical nature in Maitland.

"The council, the community - perhaps even the developers - could get together and be involved."