Why Is Infill Development So Hard?

"The reason opponents gave for denouncing the project [a two-story shopping complex]--a classic example of 'infill' development if there ever was one--was that the new building would impact an existing rear alleyway. This change to the existing commercial and residential areas (again, we're talking about a vacant lot here) was deemed too great by some locals, as well as a majority of the council. Consequently, a barren landscape and neighborhood void continues to sit where an exciting new addition to the block might be thriving."