PORT Stephens councillors are pushing ahead with plans for a $4 million overhaul of Boomerang Park .
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Councillors Bruce MacKenzie, Ken Jordan and Paul Le Mottee were set to lead the charge believing the masterplan would benefit the town.
"I am 100 per cent behind it," Cr Ken Jordan said.
"It is a space in town which is not utilised at all."
The plans are dependent on the sell-off and development of about four hectares of land which will fund $1.7 million of the park upgrades.
This will leave about 17 hectares of parkland which is set to include a skate park, boardwalk, croquet courts, a multi-purpose event space, picnic shelters, barbecues and more when complete.
There were 17 submissions lodged, including some from Raymond Terrace Tidy Towns, during the masterplan's exhibition period voicing concerns about the land sell-off.
Council's facilities and services group manager Jason Linnane said residents need to understand that without the $1.7 million from the proposed development of the site there is a strong chance the project will be shelved.
"The development hinges on the funding," he said.
"On top of the many community groups that will gain directly from the development it also promises to become a regional asset that is of benefit to the entire community."
Cr Geoff Dingle was the only councillor to stand publicly against the development prior to the council meeting, saying public open space should remain in the hands of the public. He was joined by councillors Peter Kafer and John Nell.
The masterplan was up for approval on Tuesday night. Works will start as early as next year if it goes through.