I note all the supporting arguments for this project are about sustainability, the workmanship and social credentials.

Today I drove down Davey Street to see for myself how this building will sit in its surrounds.

It is a very narrow one-way street, with an established, long-term community.

This is a tiny envelope in an old heritage area of this city.

It is extremely important to maintain these pockets of early Ballarat and not allow them to disappear through inappropriate development.

APPROVAL STORY: Nightingale apartments signed off despite resident tears

Councilor Coates says that she empathises with the residents but the project meets planning guidelines.

My question is what about height restrictions in the area, the size and form of the building and dispensation for parking?

Do planning guidelines allow for a four-story structure, that covers virtually the entire land area, overlooks and overshadows surrounding homes, to be built in a heritage area?

Sustainability is a key selling point in this project, but why construct it in such an inappropriate location?

Could it be that the Govhub will open in close proximity in 2021, providing a cashed-up clientele relocating from Melbourne, and a big win for developers?

I applaud Councilor Rinaldi for his objection to the location, but ask where are the visionary councilors who can see potential in small-scale re-development of existing structures in this street, maintaining the overall integrity and character for its current residents and for the city.

Brunswick may require overcapitalisation of land-area, but Ballarat does not.

Find a more suitable location!

- Joy Burns

It is a shame council is so consumed with the "sustainable" word they cannot see "community".

Sustainable and environmental friendly buildings can be constructed anywhere...perhaps even in our beloved Lucas, or near affluent Lake Wendouree.

To disrupt the lives of so many long term residents, and to destroy a sense of community is abhorrent.

And if there is no discretion on the part of council to deny such a development, then it is time to change the building approval process.

The entire council desire to "inbuild", destroys neighborhoods, eliminates "community", and will eventually turn Ballarat into nothing but a copy of countless Melbourne and Sydney burbs.

It is a shame.

- Stephen Downey, Golden Point