Growing town could attract more residents

LELAND,NC (WWAY) — The town of Leland is growing with everything from new restaurants to entire apartment complexes but what impact will this business boom have for a town that was mostly forestry just years ago?

Councilman Michael Callahan says sewer improvements must be made before any more development near Brunswick Forest. But, one project could bring over 700 more residents to Leland.

Callahan did not support the town’s decision to annex and zone 57.6 acres neighboring the Circle K convenient store.

According to an agreement between the town and developers, Evolve companies will build more than 28 buildings with 708 apartment units.

Callahan says he would have supported a plan that offered a combined commercial retail and housing unit like Harrington Square.

“I think [before] having developments that are farther away from the town itself… we need to make sure we include [more amenities],” said Callahan.

He says it will be months before construction starts. Concepts, design and engineering still need additional review. Specifics could possibly change after the town’s Technical Review Committee approves the plan.

Hawthorne at Leland is another Evolve development along U.S. 17. This 240-unit complex is just about one third the size of the proposed apartment complex.