Applicant MEMMA Paving lodged the proposal with Moonee Valley Council, but after more than 120 objections were received from residents and a deputations meeting was heard between council staff, residents and the applicant, the application is now bound for VCAT.

The applicant has taken the application to the planning authority after the council failed to make a determination on the plan within the prescribed time.

Moonee Ponds resident Denise Parker, who lives next door to the proposed development, said she was shocked by the plan.

She said it would block out sunlight for all neighbouring buildings and would be an invasion of privacy for residents on Normanby Street, with clear views from the proposed apartments into their backyards.

"This is not just one person with a gripe - it's everyone," Ms Parker said.

"We've hand-delivered 123 objections to VCAT, the council and the developer, and I know other people who have sent them as well."

The application is for 36 apartments across the seven storeys.

Athol Street resident Dave Brogden said the bulk of the proposal was inappropriate to the suburban area.

"It's a great big building that doesn't belong in the area."

Mr Brogden said he also had fears for the condition of a laneway behind the development, which is the proposed access point.

"That amount of traffic on these laneways ... they would just crumble."

A date for the VCAT hearing is yet to be set.