Saint John council has given its approval to a 226-unit development on the city’s east side.

Developer Eric de Jong plans to build four multi-unit buildings and 18 townhouse units at 1440 Loch Lomond Road.

However, some of those who live near the proposed development are not on board with the plan.

A number of them expressed their concerns to council during a public hearing in early February.

Seamus Hanley said he is worried about potential traffic impacts, especially with another multi-unit development planned across the street.

“I can just imagine the effect this will have on the already standstill traffic that occurs every weekday morning on Loch Lomond Road, and I find it amazing that these traffic studies keep saying that there’s no issue here,” he said.

Hanley said he believes the area should be developed but would rather see houses instead of multi-unit buildings.

It was a concern that was also echoed by Trudy Hanley, who said there needs to be more affordable housing and housing diversification.

“The construction of rental units only is not sustainable and is leading to a continued crisis in lack of housing types and increased costs to city residents,” she said.

An unspecified number of units in the buildings will be deemed affordable, according to a city staff report.