Proceedings began in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal yesterday by residents angered that the council has gone against its own preferred height restrictions of 22 metres in the area known as the Anstey Village. The 120-apartment block would also contain shops, a gym and carparking, which Ms Dickenson said was necessary to attract new residents to the area. One of the 74 objectors, resident Antonia Chaffey, said outside the tribunal that the council had been too eager to accommodate the desire of the architects.
Residents are also concerned about increased traffic, overshadowing and visual bulk.
The hearing continues until Thursday. The Age Company Ltd 2001. Any unauthorised use, copying or mirroring is prohibited.