The decision to defer was made to give Councillors time to visit the block of land and seek further community feedback.

Mayor Ryan Palmer says it is a positive outcome.

“This Council is committed to making a meaningful and positive difference to Port Stephens, while protecting our valuable environment.

“This decision will enable Councillors to visit the site and see for themselves that access to the foreshore for both the community and our local koala population will still be maintained if they decide to proceed.

“The proceeds from the sale would also provide much-needed funding for the Tomaree Sports Complex, so that Council can get to work on upgrading this valuable community asset for our future generations,” he said.

Mayor Palmer said there had been some confusion about which parcel of land was being sold.

“This cleared parcel of land was created along with 55 other lots on Foreshore Drive back in 1956. While it has been sitting idle for some time, it is residentially zoned land on which only one tree stands,” he said.

“The site is next door to an important public reserve, full of trees, which will still be maintained for the community and koalas to access the foreshore,” he added.

The decision on 109 Foreshore Drive, Salamander Bay will be made at a later date to be advised.