IT has been a pitched battle between the opposing forces of Lake Macquarie politics, a classic development versus environment tussle over a $200 million marina plan at Morisset Park.
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Planning Minister Kristina Keneally will all but end the war today in approving a concept plan for the project.
A few months ago at the height of the battle, 10 community groups united to write to Ms Keneally opposing the plan.
The Morisset Park and District Action Group had argued the marina would "extend 240 metres into Bardens Bay, blocking its entrance, effectively preventing the traditional small boating activities popular in the bay, destroying the views and disturbing the tranquillity of scores of residents".
Lake Macquarie MP and Mayor Greg Piper, a key figure in the conflict, urged Ms Keneally last month to reduce the marina's size.
Cr Piper wanted the marina limited to "a maximum of 80 berths in any initial approval".
Ms Keneally will approve a first stage of 94 berths today, with room to double that amount in future.
Cr Piper, who lives near the marina site, had supported rezoning the site to allow residential and commercial uses.
He admitted last month that decision would probably cost him votes and friends.
State approval of the concept plan has given developer Keith Johnson certainty that the project will go ahead.
Mr Johnson said he would move quickly to submit development applications for the project.
Ms Keneally said Lake Macquarie City Council would consider applications for land-based parts of the project and "depending on the nature of these applications" the joint regional planning panel may determine them.
"The NSW Government will deal with applications for the marina and associated buildings in consultation with the council," Ms Keneally said.
