A Newcastle Greens councillor says he is disappointed the local government body has moved to rezone bushland connected to the Hexham wetlands to make way for future road extensions.

Councillors voted last night to rezone nearly four hectares adjoining the New England Highway at Beresfield from light industrial to operational land.

Council recently sold the land to the Roads and Maritime Services to allow for the extension of the M1 Pacific Motorway from Blackhill to Heatherbrae.

Councillor Michael Osborne says he could not support last night’s decision.

“It’s disappointing that council once again has resolved to allow bush in our area to be destroyed, at a time when really we should be protecting the last remaining pieces of bushland in our area.,” he said.

“It’s one of the last remaining pieces of bushland that connects with Hexham swamp.

“It’s an important part of the green corridor that runs from the Watagans all the way up to Port Stephens and it’s a home for native flora and fauna.”