LEWES, Del. - A debate continues to unfold over the future of a piece of land in Lewes, over a proposed zoning change. At the Sussex County Planning and Zoning Commission meeting held at 5 p.m. Wednesday, The focus was on a potential zoning change for the 39-acre Belmead Farm from Agricultural Residential to a C-4 Planned Commercial District, a shift that has sparked debate among locals.
The Commission previously reviewed the issue a few weeks ago, but ultimately delayed a decision. They indicated they wanted to hear feedback from the Cape Henlopen School District, which has two schools located less than half a mile from the farm.
Cape Henlopen school District officials addressing proposed changes to Belmead zoning.
In the meantime, plans for the proposed development were displayed, showcasing what Belmead LLC envisions if the zoning change is approved. Construction, if greenlit, is not expected to be completed until 2032.
(Sussex County Documents.)
Regina Ayres is a local that lives near Belmead farm.
"My friend, a teacher over at Love Creek, spends a solid 30 minutes just trying to get out of that school. It's all because of the traffic. On top of that, she's gotta be extra cautious, watching for kids and buses everywhere. It really slows her down, just trying to make that turn."
The Planning and Zoning Commission did not make a decision tonight, leaving the public comment period open for 10 business days regarding the letter from the school district.