Pawleys Island residents conflicted over "big box" development (Update)

Photo by flickr member iknownowforsure

Update January 23, 2013: Good news, the Neck has not been boxed.

The final reading of the proposal to bring new retail to Pawleys Island Plaza was passed without incident. The once 100,000+ square foot project was reduced in size to 60,000 square feet, which was found to be an acceptable. 

You can read more in this WPDE story.


Update November 29, 2012: The developer is taking the concerns of citizens seriously and plans to downsize their project.

The Sun News reports that Sunbelt Ventures has changed their plans from a 119,500 square foot building to something 60,000 square feet or smaller.  You can read more here.


Update November 14, 2012: The first reading of the ordinance to allow a major development was last night and a second is scheduled for December 11, 2012.

Opposition remains strong, but, for now, Georgetown County is moving forward with the proceedings to allow a "big box" store to be build.  You can read more in this WBTW story.


First report: Pawleys Island may have a "big box" store in its future due to the redevelopment of the Pawleys Plaza area, but residents are at odds over whether it will take away from the community or add to it.

Wal-Mart is just one of the companies looking to occupy the space and residents showed up in crowds to weigh-in on whether or not the proposal should be approved.  The opinions were mixed.

Some feel it will destroy the quaint and small-town feel and impose upon local businesses. Others can't overlook the benefit of new jobs and activity will bring to the area.  The Sun News reports that the Planning Commission voted 4-1 to move forward, but with limitations.  

To read more on both sides of the issue, check out WMBF stories here and here.

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