His vision is to increase the density in the Belconnen Town Centre and see more commercial and residential blocks near the water.

''I have lived in Belconnen for the last 40 years and I think that first tall building will be confronting. But greater residential reasonably adjacent to the lake is desirable.

''The town should be incorporated into the lake.''

Hindmarsh has already secured a prime position close to the water for its 18-storey Altitude Apartments.

The block is between Chandler Street and Emu Bank and has direct access to the lake foreshore and clear views of the water. Hindmarsh expects approval of their development application this week and the project will begin mid-year to finish in 2012.

It will contain 236 apartments and there will be two other five- or six-storey buildings with 109 apartments. The ground floors will offer office and retail space.

Hindmarsh development manager Brett Smith said the block would be taller than some other residential projects planned for the area to take advantage of the views.

One such smaller block is the Oracle apartments on College Street. Oracle is marketing the Belconnen master plan renewal as a great opportunity for investors.

Mr Smith said Hindmarsh was cognisant about creating a harmonious relationship with the commercial tenants across the street.

He did not expect any problems with noise.

For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times