AN application to expand Soldiers Point Marina has been refused tonight (Thursday, June 12) by the Joint Regional Planning Panel.
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After more than two hours of public access the panel came the unanimous decision to reject the application due to insufficient information.
The panel cited parking concerns and the lack of a Species Impact Statement as some of the main concerns.
The applicant had suggested during public access that the matter be deferred to allow additional time to compile the additional information.
But the panel was not satisfied there would be a satisfactory resolution should the requested information come back.
"The additional information would almost be equivalent to a new development application," panel member Jason Perica said.
Soldiers Point Community Group president Colin Howard said he was impressed by the applicant's arguments but did not support their blame of Port Stephens Council for a lack of information.
"That is not our experience in the Soldiers Point Community Group, council has been most supportive and very efficient of any request for information," he said.
But Mr Howard and also Port Stephens Major Bruce MacKenzie who also sits on the panel mentioned this did not mean the end for the proposed expansion.
"The applicant has a right to submit a new DA," Cr MacKenzie said during the meeting.
Cr MacKenzie also touched on the fact the matter could be challenged in the Land and Environment Court.
The proponent was asked to provide comment for this story but declined the opportunity.