New Hanover County Planning Board approves sand mine special use permit

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) —  After more than four years of controversy, the New Hanover County Planning Board unanimously approved a special use permit for a sand mine in Castle Hayne Thursday night.

It was a sea of white at Thursday’s meeting, with neighbors wearing the same color, and carrying signs voicing their opposition to the proposed sand mine. Residents even played dump truck sounds on a Bluetooth speaker to replicate the noise they will hear daily.

After hearing from both sides of the debate, the board voted to approve it, with conditions.

The developer, Hilton Properties, must pave Sledge Road, put up a stick-built-fence, do drainage prevention, and undergo post-construction decibel testing in accordance with New Hanover County law.

Still, neighbors are not happy.

“Most of the people who were in there today are homeowners, and the most important thing they own is their home,” said neighbor Julian Rothlein. “So when you go out and say I’m going to allow something to occur that’s going to have a negative impact on your home, it’s a matter of great concern.”

New Hanover County says they don’t believe the mine will be a public health issue, or affect property values in the area.