Complex sentence: Property values became depressed, and two deputations to the state minister did not appear to change his mind, however although survey work had commenced the scheme was abandoned before it was completed, in favour of the site at Eildon.
Split into simpler sentences: Property values became depressed, and two deputations to the state minister did not appear to change his mind. Survey work commenced, but the scheme was abandoned before it was completed, in favour of the site at Eildon.