IT’S full steam ahead for the controversial 13-storey tower near Ormond train station with the State Government giving it the green light.

The tower, planned for North Rd, will include residential space as well as a supermarket and retail strip.

State Planning Minister Richard Wynne sought advice from an independent advisory committee in February before approving the plans, which have been opposed by neighbours including the No Ormond Sky Tower lobby group.

Group spokeswoman Vivian Shannon said residents had been left in the dark about the progress of the planning permit.

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“The committee they appointed for this whole hearing was just to appease the residents and there was absolutely no community consultation whatsoever,” Mrs Shannon said.

“Nobody said they were happy with 13 storeys ... they’ve basically disregarded all the comments from the council and the locals.”

The tower will be built directly on top of the station and has the potential to create hundreds of jobs in Ormond, Mr Wynne said.

“The location is ideally suited for new homes and businesses because it’s directly connected with public transport, employment opportunities and other community services,” he said.

“Proper planning is all about strategic decisions that cater for growth in the right areas ... the project will create jobs for residents.”

Neighbours raised concerns about the tower last year amid reports it would contain minimal car parking to encourage residents to use public transport and stand out as the only high rise in Ormond.

The building will decrease in height towards its residential facing northern end, standing at a maximum of six storeys.