Since the state government announced its plan on 18 December 2016 to merge Port Stephens with Newcastle City Council, a cloud of doubt has been cast over what the future will look like for the people of Port Stephens.

It is a gross understatement to say that I am against any merger.

But I am particularly insulted by the Newcastle proposal because it is simply a mismatch.

To suggest that a coastal and rural community, with a population density of 0.8 people per hectare, is a good fit to merge with a city is by any measure ludicrous.

One look at a population density map will show that no matter how you try to package it, Port Stephens and Newcastle are vastly different.

It is a far better outcome for the state government to return to its original plan to merge Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

It is a logical harmonisation of the sprawling urban hubs of the Lower Hunter.

We in Port Stephens value our village lifestyles, our unspoiled natural environment, and our escape from the rat race of city living.

These are the values on which our communities are built.

That's why, if a merger has to happen, it is Port Stephens Council's preference to merge with Dungog.

It is a more natural fusion of social, environmental, cultural and economic factors between two areas that share the same rural outlook and ideals.

The Newcastle proposal was rejected by 93 per cent of Port Stephens residents.

Now, it is equally important to let the state government know that our preference is for Dungog. If you haven't already, write your submission.

This is your opportunity to write down what you think, and means Delegate Peter Peppin has to take your view into consideration as part of his report. Submissions must be received by 5pm Sunday, June 26, 2016.

It does not matter if you lodge it online or by post, or whether it's one page or 100 pages.

For all the information you need, visit Port Stephens Council's website at www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au.