At present, Lantana Place access ends in an unfinished cul-de-sac, with pasture land (being possibly Crown land - this has not be stated) either side, with the larger portion on the left side of the dirt entry facing southwest and in front of privately-owned land.

It is a small parcel of land by normal standards, and these one- and two-bedroom duplexes will be an encroachment upon the adjacent duplex, as a small division and fence line dividing the land is indicated in the draft plan, which has now come into my possession.

MAP: Where is Lantana Place ...

As to receiving notification by letter of this development - this did not happen. I live at 19 Begonia Place, my neighbour at 18A, and we were only advised by our neighbours at 1 and 2 Begonia Place - who live directly opposite to us - of their letters.

So the letter drop did not cover all residents who will be affected, and there may be others who also were not advised officially but received the news as verbally.

I have reviewed the proposed land as advised and it is only a small area for such a proposed development and placement of so-called villas and their proximity to the other residents. In other words: a ghetto would be placed in our backyards and neighbourhood.

These villas, if erected, will look presentable in the first instance, but will they be maintained that way by the occupiers? They will be rentals, after all, so there's no emphasis on the occupier to keep a well and pleasant abode.

The volume of traffic will be increased, behavioural eruptions will occur due to the number of people placed in a confined area, plus the additional service delivery and community provisions required to cater to these residents.

Surely there are other areas of Crown land or council-owned land that would be more suitable, with closeness to public transport and service providers?

When moving to Orange 23 months ago, I looked for a quiet and pleasant neighbourhood with good housing and was prepared to pay for that privilege. Now my home and investment is being comprised.

Housing Plus must give assurances as to the impact of this proposed development on residents in Lantana Place, adjacent houses and interconnecting streets; that the harmony and well-being we now take as our own will stay that way.

Hopefully another area can be considered.