Land in Harrington that has been earmarked for aged care by developer Roche is nearing the end of a twelve year arrangement with Taree council.

Roche has been given extensions, the latest deadline is June, after which council can buy the land back for a dollar if there is no action.

Residents, frustrated at the lack of progress, are hoping to force the council’s hand. Local Bob Smith says it’s time for them to act.

"We believe that the developer has had a monopoly on aged care at Harrington here and he has failed to honour any of his contracts and it is time the council took back control," he said.

However the council has decided in the short term not to take up their option to repurchase the land earmarked for aged care.

Greater Taree City Councillor Peter Epov believes council is trying to do the right thing by residents.

"I think council is trying to work with a partner, but at the same time I think we also need to be forceful and we need to represent the community and clearly they want us to take back the land.

Councillor Epov said there has been little other interest in developing aged care in the area.