The plans for the old ACTTAB site would involve the combining of two blocks and a shift from its business lease purpose clause and public car park option.

The project on the corner of Challis and Antill streets would create two six-storey buildings to the rear of the Dickson KFC and adjoining service station. There would be two levels of underground parking for residents.

Dickson cobbler Jason Mann said he was surprised the plans did not include a commercial aspect, but his main concern was the lost opportunity for a temporary carpark if the Coles DOMA development did proceed.

"It's going to overlap with the construction period of the Coles DOMA project which is obviously going to be a bit of an issue," he said.

"We need carparks to keep these shops alive."

The site had previously received development approval to be used as a car park with about 115 spaces, and shaped as a stop-gap measure after public backlash against plans to knock down 27 trees near the Dickson pool for parking.

In May an amended proposal for 140 units and new Coles and ALDI supermarkets on the site next to Dickson Woolworths was rejected by the ACT Planning and Land Authority after extended community opposition. ACTPLA knocked back the application on the grounds it failed to meet planning codes, design guidelines and the level of quality required for such a prominent location.

The developers of the rejected proposal have indicated they would seek an internal review, with their reconsideration application due to be filed by October 31.

The new 125-unit project will combine stone walls, corrugated fences and 1.8-metre-high security walls, with a small pond between the two buildings.

Public submissions for the 125-unit project end on September 18.