Port Stephens Council votes on $4M oceanfront home facing community revolt
Port Stephens councillors will decide October 27 on a $4 million oceanfront home. It drew almost 100 submissions.
The plan would demolish a single-storey home at 13 Ocean Avenue. The plan would replace it with a three-storey residence.
The residence reaches the nine-metre height limit for the low-density residential zone. Staff recommend approval despite strong community objection.
The oceanfront site sits next to the waterfront reserve, Moore's Pool and the Tomaree Coastal Path. It borders the Birubi Point Aboriginal Place.
Residents raised four main concerns: loss of neighbourhood character, privacy, traffic and parking, and community amenity. Objectors also cited overshadowing, noise, and loss of ocean views.
They worried the house would be used for short-term holiday rental. Two councillors asked for the full council to decide the matter.
The council agreed. The council pulled the decision from staff delegation.
This was in the public interest.
Why it mattersThe vote shows how oceanfront properties in the area will be developed. This matters as older buildings are replaced.
AustraliaPort Stephens residents will see the outcome shape development rules for coastal communities across NSW, as similar debates play out at local councils nationwide.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 5 h ago
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