Close watch: Ropes Crossing residents are keeping an eye on work at the site of a proposed medium density residential development in Dunlop Avenue. Picture: Michael Szabath'
ROPES Crossing residents have raised a few eyebrows about works on the site of a proposed three-storey development, which is yet to get council approval.
They say the medium density housing development in Dunlop Avenue is out of character with the area.
Resident Tony Prasad said the developer, University Property Group, recently fenced the area, installed a temporary office on site and established a foundation for a crane tower.
"I was surprised because we hadn't heard anything from the council," he said.
A council spokeswoman said the development application was refused because it had been before the council for more than the statutory 40 days.
The applicant appealed to the Land and Environment Court and is preparing new plans to resolve concerns raised.
"The council has raised a number of concerns with the development and the court has directed council and the applicant to mediation to resolve the issues," the spokeswoman said.
"Once amended plans are received, they will be renotified.
"Objectors will be able to give evidence to the court on their concerns."
She said the council was aware of work on the site in anticipation of obtaining approval.
"The council is acting on that to ensure nothing further happens on the site unless an approval is granted," the spokeswoman said.
"It must be stressed that amended plans have not been received for assessment and there is no certainty of an approval being granted to the proposed development."
Mr Prasad hopes the developer considers residents' concerns in the amended plans.
"I'm not against development of the site," he said.
"All we're asking is to consider the other buildings in the area and ensure the development fits in with the neighbourhood."