The proposal is to build 10 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom units on four blocks that would be two-storey designs. The subdivision already has a number of new homes built there. The land in question is in Alpine Close and Garland Road.

A group of about 20 residents, some with homes adjoining the proposed developments met on December 7 to air their concerns to Member for Cessnock, Kerry Hickey and ward councillors Dale Troy and deputy mayor, Ian Olsen.

Some of the main areas of concern were the units would create high density housing, that the two-storey design was out of character with the area and would invade the privacy of adjoining homes.

Concerns were also raised that only five property owners had received official notice of the proposal.

One of the objectors, Dennis Moore, said residents would not mind so much if the number of units was reduced and that they be of single-storey design. He said experience in areas of Sydney and other parts of the State show that problems arise with high density developments and residents do not want the same to happen in what has always been a quiet neighbourhood.

He was also vocal in his criticism of the Department of Housing being able to build the units bypassing any council approval under the development without consent clause.

Member for Cessnock, Kerry Hickey, said the development could be opposed on planning grounds and he would be taking residents concerns to the appropriate authorities.

Councillors Troy and Olsen said they would be opposing the development. Cr. Olsen was critical of the department saying that it does not care what our (council’s) policies are.

Cr. Troy said Cessnock Council has told the department of Housing it wants developments such as this dispersed, but it has taken no notice.

Mr. Moore in a letter to the department says the houses in the proposed area are all single-storey buildings both new and old. To put a double-storey block of units in the same area would be totally out of character with all neighbouring properties and would stand out like a beacon, he said.

“We have no objections to the department building units but in this area however it should definitely be single storey."