A number of speakers congratulated the council for listening to vocal community opposition to height and density issues in the city.

In response to 439 objections to the height limits, the 16m limit in medium-density zones was reduced to 13m (three storeys).

Low-density residential zones will have a 9m height limit (two storeys) rather than the proposed 11m.

There was also relief at the decision to abandon medium-density development around Woonona railway station and west of North Wollongong railway station.

Former independent councillor Alice Cartan welcomed the change, but she was concerned about what the NSW Department of Planning would say about the council abandoning "urban consolidation" principles near the two stations.

Mrs Kibble reassured her that: "When the council adopts the plan in its final form, we will sure as hell fight for it."

Port Kembla stalwart Olive Rodwell thanked the administrators and council staff for finally listening to Port Kembla residents.

"We have not had honest representation in Port Kembla for many years," she said.

She welcomed news the old Port Kembla school would be zoned for mixed use, rather than industrial use, and that the new school would retain a green buffer from heavy industry.

Mrs Kibble last night amended the proposal for the former Port Kembla school site to limit residential development to south of the remaining school buildings.

She said the changes to the LEP were a direct result of community feedback.