Brunswick County Planning Board approves 1650+ single-family unit Hooper Rd development

BOLIVIA, NC (WWAY) — A proposed housing development in Brunswick County that’s faced criticism from some nearby residents was a major topic of discussion at the Brunswick County Planning Board meeting Monday afternoon.

Blue Fern Development will be building 1670 single-family units on Hooper Road off Mt. Misery Road in Leland.

The Hooper Road development had first gone before the board back in June, but was not approved due to some concerns board members had, which a newer version of the plan addressed.

More than 10 people spoke about why they’re against it, with some, like Jonathan Warner, citing the potential impact such a large development could have on the area.

“You’re gonna be clear-cutting, we’re at a lower elevation than they are,” Warner said. “You clear that out, where’s the water gonna run? Schools are at capacity right now, they admitted the schools are at capacity, the landfill in Bolivia is closing, the post office in Leland, they’re working in tents in the parking lot. It just doesn’t seem right to jam this in here.”

And they weren’t alone as some board members also shared their concerns.

After more than an hour of public comments and discussion, the board took a vote with chair Clifton Cheek casting the deciding vote.

“I felt that they did substantial changes, enough to warrant approval. Overall, it was an exceptional design and met or exceeded the UDO.”

As part of the development, Blue Fern would also work with the NCDOT to expand and improve the on and off ramps to I-140 and US Highway 74 at the Mt. Misery exits to help with the expected increase in traffic in that area.

The planning board also approved the Parker Tract subdivision, which will consist of 102 single-family homes in the Shallotte/Supply area of the county.