The Port Macquarie-Hastings Council passed the motion that an expression of interest be sent to the state government asking for the land to be sold to them for $1. Once acquired, the land will be developed to include car parking, shops, restaurants, public amenities and parks. 

Adam Roberts and Sharon Griffiths were the only Councillors to oppose the motion which was put forward by mayor Peter Besseling and seconded by Rob Turner.

Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce president Hadyn Oriti said small business and tourism operators do not need further enhancements of the market power of one of the large supermarkets.

He spoke in favour of Council's motion but noted his preferred option was for a state government-owned corporation to take responsibility for the entire foreshore.

Ms Griffiths said the project had the potential to tie up ratepayer funds, while Mr Roberts said there was no value for money in buying the land.

But the five other Councillors argued not making the expression of interest would be a lost opportunity for the community.

They were all scathing of the state government's expression of interest process, which has been significantly shorter than they believed reasonable.

"For us to have that ready in the limited time frame is ridiculous," Councillor Mike Cusato said.

Councillor Geoff Hawkins said those on Macquarie Street had been consistent.

"They have botched and butchered it every step of the way," he said.

Mr Hawkins also noted Council had slightly more than two weeks to create and file an expression of interest, while Woolworths had 1565 days to develop one.

Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams was invited but did not attend the meeting.

The expression of interest will be filed by Friday.