A Halifax developer wants to build a 13-storey residential tower next to a historic Roman Catholic church on Brunswick Street.

Studioworks International Inc. bought the rectory located next door to Saint Patrick's church, which opened in 1885. The company plans to retain the 12 units within the rectory and attach a tower with another 49 one- and two-bedroom units.

Kate Shewan, who works for a non-profit three doors down from the proposed development, said she doesn't think the project fits in with the neighbourhood.

"The height is out of whack with everything else," said Shewan. "And the appearance is kind of an unattractive concrete structure."

Shewan pointed out there are a number of heritage buildings along the street besides Saint Patrick's even though Brunswick Street is not designated a conservation district.

There is also concern about the impact on parking in the area. The proposed tower only includes seven parking spaces.

"The on-street parking is pretty limited here, so I can see that getting worse," said Shewan.

At a neighbourhood meeting last November, Rick Butler, a member of the church, said he appreciated the work done on the rectory but was not in favour of the rest of the development.

The District 7 and 8 planning advisory committee will review the proposal after which a staff report on the project will be sent to the Halifax and West Community Council.