The development application outlines a proposal to change of 45 short term sites to long term sites within the existing caravan park known as Dunbogan Caravan Park on Bell Street, Dunbogan. 

Janene Sim said she has been holidaying at Dunbogan Caravan Park since she was born 40 years ago.

Three years ago her family purchased an onsite van.

“Dunbogan has always been a second home to my family and me and we are very distressed to learn of this development,” she said.

“We are extremely worried about the detriment to tourism, small business and the koala population as the caravan park is designated as a Koala Habitat Protection environment under SEPP 44 State Environmental Planning Policies.” 

The development application said the land is affected by SEPP 44 – Koala Habitat Protection due to the size of the site.

“However, as no development or works are proposed, including no tree removal, there is no need for further investigation at this stage,” it said. 

The application said said no physical works are proposed to the caravan park. However a future development application is being prepared for minor changes to sites to improve functionality.

Ms Sim said she is concerned that if the proposal is approved construction may then take place on the site.

“No trees are planned to be cut down at this stage but that does not mean it won’t happen in the future,” she said. 

“This beautiful area will no longer be the same if the proposal is approved.”

The development application said almost half of the site is used for permanent occupation and the remainder for short term.

The Port Macquarie-Hastings community has until July 20 to provide feedback to council regarding the development application.  

For more information please visit the Port Macquarie-Hastings website www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au

The Camden Haven Courier has contacted the Dunbogan Caravan Park for comment.