Marina to build dry storage building, community opposed

A New Hanover County marina will be allowed to build a dry storage building, despite community opposition.

Tim Ward has applied for a permit to build a dry storage facility at Carolina Yacht Club and Marina at least six times over the years. Each time county commissioners denied his request, saying a high-capacity, dry dock storage facility did not fit in the neighborhood. But a judge has now overturned the commissioner’s decision. Now neighbors, including Tim Ward’s relatives, are pleading for help.

“Once a special use marina like this has been overturned – look out. We’re on fire here and the fire’s going to spread to other neighborhoods,” said David Ward. “They need to support their special use permits ordinance to try and preserve the neighborhoods and save our communities from this kind of trouble.”

David Ward said he is worried about the road and water traffic the marina could bring to the area.

Tim Ward said the county needs more places to launch boats. He will still need to obtain a number of permits before construction can begin.