The ACTPLA delegate said the proposed development, criticised by one resident as looking like an ocean liner, would provide an "interesting frontage" and make a positive contribution to the streetscape of Borrowdale Street.

David Templeman, chairman of the streets' residents' association, said a meeting next week would allow a decision on whether to appeal the approval to ACAT.

"It is disappointing," he said.

"I don't think they've given due consideration to the streetscape and privacy concerns of residents."

The 28 objections to the plans on a short road with 19 properties included fears the buildings - four dwellings with four connected garages - would undermine the area's character and neighbours' privacy.

The decision, dated September 25, noted the existing dual occupancies on the street and the multi-unit developments in "close proximity" in the same zone.

The delegate said landscaping out the front of the building, including a condition which required some semi-mature plants, would ensure the street's landscape environment was enhanced.

While noting some technical encroachments, the delegate said there would be no adverse impacts on privacy, with the buildings an "appropriate bulk and scale" in the RZ2 zone.

He accepted Territory and Municipal Services Directorate advice of no pedestrian safety concerns connected with the lack of a footpath or the "insignificant" traffic increase the lease variation would bring.

The developer said in an amended submission the "look" of the proposed development was representative of modern architecture.

Residents have until October 23 to lodge an appeal.