Can a neighbour object because they do not like the design?

Yes. A neighbour can make a representation about the design, but personal preference alone is not enough to determine whether the development should be approved or refused.

For example, saying “I don't like how the building looks” without explaining a planning concern provides little information for the assessment. However, concerns about the design may be relevant if they relate to matters such as:

1. privacy or overlooking;
2. solar access;
3. building height, bulk or scale;
4. traffic or access; or
5. how the development interacts with surrounding development.

ACT Planning specifically explains that if representations simply state that people do not like the proposal without giving a reason, there is not enough information for that concern to be considered meaningfully in making the decision.

Example: A neighbour saying “I don't like the modern design” is essentially a personal preference. If they instead explain that the placement of an upper-storey window creates overlooking into their private open space, that raises a specific planning issue that can be assessed.

Reference: ACT Planning – Comment on a development application - https://www.planning.act.gov.au/applications-and-assessments/development-applications/browse-das/comment-on-a-development-application