The Northside Progress Association says future planning is one of the main reasons behind a survey of North Shore residents.
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The survey has been circulating in the 1000-strong community for two weeks.
Association president Carla McKern said the results of the survey won't be known for several weeks but the details will be forwarded to Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.
"We are gathering these survey results as part of our push to be a more integral part of the council's strategic plan," she said.
"Council needs to think ahead and not be reactive to situations, in particular, the ferry services and the strategic role Maria River Road plays in this community.
"Specifically, the ferry services are a vital link for us. Our complaints as a community revolve around the timing and scheduling of the ferry services and the way tickets are or rather could be, purchased.
"There is a genuine problem with timing.
There is a genuine problem with timing.
- Carla McKern
"The timing does not service the residents that access and utilise the Hibbard Ferry service. Tradies, getting kids to and from school, meeting community and sporting commitments are all hampered by the timing of the ferry."
Mrs McKern said the current timing of the Hibbard Ferry is not coping with the needs of the Riverside Drive community.
The longtime resident can remember the construction of Limeburners Creek bridge which joined the two communities.
But the number of residents continues to increase, she said.
"And back then, the ferry service was free and there is a genuine belief that this should be reintroduced for local residents.
"How many other ratepayers have to pay to use a road in the Port Macquarie-Hastings?"
