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Neighbors, developers fight over plan to redevelop historic estate

By Jenna Deery
By Jenna Deery

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Neighbors have been fighting a plan to redevelop a historic estate in Plaza-Midwood.

The changes to the Van Landingham Estate would include adding townhomes and a swim club.

He tried to cater to the concerns of neighbors living around the estate, because he said it's either this or bankruptcy like three other owners before him.

Nine months after the first public hearing, developers and the owner of the Van Landingham Estate were back in front of Charlotte City Council.

Estate owner Billy Maddalon explained what could happen if he doesn't act fast to turn the profit-draining landmark into a money making business.

Now, it’s a bed and breakfast that moonlights as an event facility.

A team of developers want to add townhomes and a swim club to the property.

In January, neighbors expressed concerns for traffic, noise and parking issues in the neighborhood.

Since then, the developers made some changes including reducing the number of townhomes and moving the proposed on-street parking.

Critics still made their opposition clear.

“This proposal takes away the best assets of the estate and increases the risk,” one said during the zoning meeting.While opponents spoke, supporters held signs and pushing council for a "yes" vote.

The owner said it's this idea or the Estate, rich in Charlotte history, could be wiped out.

This was the second public hearing about the redevelopment of the estate. That doesn't usually happen with re-zonings, but council wanted to hear the changes the owner made to get his critics on board.

He said it's this plan or bankruptcy for the estate.

The estate's owner said he's already sold a few hundred pool memberships, but his plan can't become a reality without council's approval for the rezoning.

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