Port councillors agreed last Tuesday to place the draft plan on exhibition and accept public submissions until November 11.

Described as "the axis between Nelson Bay's town centre and foreshore", Apex Park is a significant site for veterans (with its war memorial), tourists (with its visitor information centre) and for community gatherings.

The plan's five key components include: terrace seating on the western slope to provide an informal amphitheatre; consistent park furniture; memorial steps restoration; a strong axis; and stabilisation of the Teramby Road embankment.

Councillors Sally Dover, John Nell and Ken Jordan were all impressed by the plan while at the same time welcoming new ideas from the community.

Infuriated with the ad-hoc approach to development of the park over the years, the Nelson Bay West Park Care group first approached the council about formulating a master plan in 2013.

Group president Peter Dundas-Smith said they were pleased with the outcome.

"We are glad the council has stuck to a minimalist approach and not gone for all the bells and whistles because the park is too small for a major makeover," Mr Dundas-Smith said.

Another key player in the master plan, the Tomaree Residents and Ratepayers Association, also gave the council a partial tick of approval.

"Most of our suggestions are reflected in the draft but we would like to see more attractive landscaping and features added to the park," TRRA president Geoffrey Washington said.

Another suggestion that did not make the draft but received resounding support from both groups was the possibility of opening up the back end of the visitors information centre with an inviting entrance and cafe.

The council will hold a drop-in information session at Apex Park on Wednesday, October 7, from 4-6pm.