By Laura Crosio
After months of public meetings, delays and controversy, the developer of a proposed 2,200-home subdivision in Clayton has canceled the sale.
Wakefield Development Co. had been seeking the Town of Clayton’s approval to build Steeplechase, a master planned community on a 630-acre tract owned by Nancy Earp and family. The land is situated on Covered Bridge Road within town limits.
At the May 4th council meeting, town planner David DeYoung presented members with a letter from the Earp’s attorney asking for a two-month delay on any action taken on the proposed neighborhood. The council agreed to table the item until July 20.
But the sale may eventually happen. Earp’s attorney noted the property owners and developer haven’t completely ruled out a new deal by stating both are in “active discussions in an attempt to move this project forward.” The letter also said the extension was needed to “allow for the parties to work through issues that at present are making this project not feasible for the developer to move forward.”
In recent months, the planned community had been met with opposition by residents in neighboring subdivisions Ole Mill Stream and Smith Ridge Estates who expressed concerns about traffic and quality of life.
Wakefield Development Co. and Town of Clayton planners were working together to make several changes to satisfy resident concerns, including soliciting a traffic impact study from the DOT.
According to town officials, the developer’s application to rezone the property or its master plan has not been withdrawn.
