Rezoning in Hampstead near U.S. 17 could pave way for more business development
Two developers working to bring more business to Hampstead near U.S. 17 received planning board approval for rezoning.
Peter S. Vinal, a real estate broker and owner of the TP Factory, LLC saw the Factory Road property on the market, which is near Hampstead Baptist Church. The 2.85 acres, less than a mile away from U.S. 17, was purchased with the assistance of his business partner, Dr. Thomas Melin.
"I just moved here in Salters Haven and everyone was just telling me that everyone needs a new place to go," Vinal stated in his application to county officials. "So, I felt like this was the perfect spot to do just that."
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Greg Feldman, Pender County planner, presented a request for a rezoning map amendment to the municipality's planning board in early October. The land is currently in a residential area, but developers asked the board to change it to general business. This would allow for commercial developments such as offices, retail, recreation, entertainment and personal services.
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County officials said a plan with visual concepts is not required at this time since it's just a rezoning request. However, future developments will have to follow standards and must be approved by the county's technical review committee. Vinal was unable to provide additional details about possible uses since the project is in the beginning planning stages.
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Under county regulations, upper story residential spaces are also allowed above a commercial building in the general business zone, which accommodate uses which require close access to major highways. It's established to provide convenient locations for businesses to serve residents.
The rezoning request was unanimously approved by planning board members. It's now going Pender County Board of Commissioners for another decision on Nov. 21.
According to county records, the value of the property at 147 Factory Road is close to $265,000. Vinal also said a new traffic circle at the end of Safe Passage Way is under construction, so they had to give up some of their property to help the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
"So this would be such a good fit," he stated.
Reporter Chase Jordan can be reached at cjjordan@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Hampstead land rezoned near U.S. 17 could become business development
