Nathan Morton Phee in Grafton court over Maclean car chase

A man who was allegedly caught driving on the wrong side of the road at night without lights on led police on a chase that had to be called off before he was later arrested.

A Woodford Island man allegedly led police on a 12-minute chase on Clarence Valley roads after being seen on the wrong side of the road at night without headlights on.

Nathan Morton Phee, 36, faced Grafton Local Court on Wednesday to apply for bail having been arrested the night before.

Police allege they abandoned their pursuit of Mr Phee due to public concerns before arresting him later on.

Police allege Mr Phee was affected by drugs and unable to be interviewed due to the drug intoxication.

He was later charged with fail to stop during a police pursuit, driving while suspended and possession of 1.1 grams of methylamphetamine. He was not charged with driving under the influence.

Police prosecutor Sergeant Ursula Kryg opposed bail, stating that Mr Phee’s driving was a danger to the community.

“That kind of driving is a danger to the community in terms of a tragedy occurring,” Magistrate Kathy Crittenden agreed.

Mr Phee’s solicitor, Joshua Craig, said his client had drug and alcohol issues, along with mental health issues.

Ms Crittenden asked Mr Craig if Mr Phee had received any prior drug or alcohol treatment.

Mr Craig said he had not but Mr Phee was pursuing residential rehabilitation and also needed to address his mental health concerns.

Bail was granted on conditions that Mr Phee live at the Great Northern Hotel in South Grafton with a night curfew.

The matter has been listed for March 28 for pleas to be entered.