Real estate developer C.F. Currin is facing opposition to a self-storage development it has proposed for Chester, Va. Last week the Chesterfield Planning Commission tabled the company’s zoning request for 60 days based on the advice of commissioner Gib Sloan. The delay is intended to give the developer time to obtain feedback from residents, according to the source. The proposal will be revisited on July 19.

The 3.4-acre site in question is currently zoned agricultural, and the county’s comprehensive plan suggests an appropriate use would be a mix of office and residential. Currin’s plan includes construction of a three-story, 500-unit self-storage facility in the primarily residential area.

Although the land is next to a church, the pastor and parishioners don’t oppose the project, the source reported. “I understand that some entities in the community aren’t too intrigued by the idea [of a self-storage facility], but our primary focus is to create an environment where people can come and grow in their faith,” Rev. Johnnie Fleming Jr., pastor of Second Baptist Church, told the commission.

The development is, however, facing opposition from residents concerned about the property’s height and overall look. The design will resemble an office building, and unit doors won’t be visible from the exterior, according to Jack Wilson, an attorney representing Currin.

“We’re trying to bring it in line with the comp plan,” said Wilson, adding that tests to determine the building’s true height will be conducted. The developer will also host a community meeting to solicit response from residents. A similar gathering was held earlier this month at Curtis Elementary School, the source reported.

Sources: