Areas of the city which were once packed with sleepy residential streets are fast becoming extensions of the CBD.

While this expansion may be deemed good for the city’s economic prosperity it certainly raises a number of issues for the people who live in there.

Residents of sections of Hill and Byng streets are seeing first hand the impact the changing complexion of the city may have on their daily lives.

In recent months some of them have expressed concern over the proposed construction of a large accommodation complex at 62 Byng Street. 

If the project is approved by Orange City Council, early next year construction will start on a building which some residents believe to be inappropriate for one of the city’s most prominent historic quarters.

Of course not all of the residents objections are about the appropriateness of the construction or how it may overshadow neighbours or reduce their privacy.

Many of the objectors have expressed concern the development will herald an unwieldy increase in traffic congestion and a lack or parking. 

Of course these inconveniences are to be expected for anyone who lives in the CBD but for residents in these streets they are both unexpected and unacceptable.

However, experience tells us that opening a business in the middle of a residential area can pay dividends, as the owner of the popular Byng Street Local Store Jeremy Norris will attest.

While Mr Norris has attracted share of objectors his business just a block away from 62 Byng Street has continued to thrive.

These conversations, and in some cases arguments, about the appropriate way to develop Orange are important and prompt us all to think and talk about the future of our city.

While we may not all agree, it’s vital a multitude of voices are heard.