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Historians try to save Plaza Midwood's VanLandingham estate

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Historians are trying to save the historic VanLandingham estate that has stood in Plaza Midwood for more than 100 years.

A plan two years ago called for the estate to be replaced by townhomes and a pool, but it was rejected.

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Historians are hoping that a new plan, which does not involve tearing down the house, will pass as several new members join the Charlotte City Council.

The estate, which was built in 1913, has been used for events and was a bed-and-breakfast.

The Maddalon family currently owns it and wants to develop the land.

After the plan two years ago was denied, owners asked the Historical Commission if they could tear it all down.

“The key is to find an economically viable plan for that big house,” said Dan Morrill with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmark Commission.

News that the owners may submit a similar plan with townhomes to City Council leaves hope the estate can be saved.

Incoming District 1 Councilman Larken Egleston, who is running unopposed, is also vice chair of the Historical Commission. He thinks a new council will be much more receptive.

“I do think we can save it if a similar plan comes forward to council with 50 percent new faces,” Egleston said.

Larken called the 2015 vote to shoot down the plans for the estate a debacle. No new plan has been submitted yet to the council.

On Nov. 13, the Historical Commission will vote on the request to demolish the home, which Morrill thinks is just a backup plan if the council doesn’t approve the new plan.

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