The proposals for four and five storey buildings are key guidelines in Port Stephens Council's 2030 Strategy covering future development at Nelson Bay.

This week EcoNetwork secretary Darrell Dawson described Nelson Bay as a "town under siege."

He said his members totally opposed development in Apex Park and five storeys on the waterfront as suggested by strategy consultants Patrick Partners.

"The proposals are outrageous, "Mr Dawson said.

"Apex Park and the waterfront are sacrosanct."

Mr Dawson said members were also concerned about the proposal for 12 storey development near the bowling club. The issue is to be discussed at the next meeting of the organisation on March 20 at the Tomaree Community Centre. Also on the agenda is a talk from visiting American biologist Terry Domico.He will be seeking support for a World Heritage nomination for the area from the Barrington catchment through the Myall Lakes to Port Stephens.