Debate on this issue is not new and every development application is considered on its individual merit, however whenever these kind of proposals come before council there’s always controversy.

There are some people who believe residential areas are becoming overcrowded while others believe it’s hard to say no to progress.

In this case neighbours in the Prince Street and Lords Place vicinity are concerned the proposed development is not in keeping with the style and quality of buildings in the heritage precinct.

Lords Place resident Lee Bell said she had spent a significant sum of money over the past five years to refurbish her 1917 workers cottage, ensuring the house was a faithful replica of the era.

According to Ms Bell, as a result of all the hard work council invited her to place the house on its heritage conservation list.

However, she believes if council were to allow her neighbours to build a second rudimentary building nearby it would serve to undermine the heritage precinct.

While Ms Bell and her neighbours may have reservations about their neighbour’s construction plans, it’s up to council to decided if the end product will prove the eyesore she’s suggesting it will.

At this stage it’s unclear how much of the building will be able to be viewed from the street and how it may impact the streetscape, if at all.

It also has to be acknowledged that there is a shortage of affordable housing in Orange, and the construction of dwellings such as the one proposed could address this shortfall.

The ball’s now in council’s court to decide if residential buildings like this are what Orange residents want and need.