Sneak peek of The Block 2012 as small stumbling block delays South Melbourne reno

The Block 2012 filming is well underway on Dorcas Street, South Melbourne, but its key point of difference has yet to get through Port Phillip Council.

The Channel 9 reality television shows – which will headline the 2012 programing launch by the network after its stellar 2011 season – features the formulaic four adjoining properties.

It is Victorian terraces this time – unlike the Richmond cottages last year.

But plans to demolish an adjoining cottage on Montague Street to make way for rear four-car garaging with loft rooms has yet to get through the council.

There are three objections to the plans, which are being considered by council staff. It is usually council policy that matters with fewer than 15 complaints are dealt with by delegated authority by council officers and needn't go before a council meeting for final approval.

Filming began late last month, with the show expected to air in February, with Scott Cam back as the affable host.

Nine has been keeping details of the fifth series a big secret, having not provided any information yet on the contestants.

But some details of the series are expected to be unveiled at today’s programming and sales launch.

The series – which aired in an expanded format last year – rated more than 1 million viewers daily, with the series finale in August pulling in 3.2 million viewers nationally. 

The production company spent some some $3.8 million on four unrenovated terraces in Dorcas Street.