Amherst Planning Commission gives first reading to data center restrictions, vote ahead
The Amherst County Planning Commission held the first reading of a proposed ordinance to eliminate "by-right" data center development, requiring special use permits and stricter requirements. Residents continue to push for stronger protections and are concerned about the potential impacts of such projects. The commission plans to revisit the ordinance in July.
The Amherst County Planning Commission has initiated steps to impose stricter regulations on data center development within the county. During its first reading, the commission reviewed a proposed ordinance that would eliminate the current "by-right" allowance for data centers, instead mandating that developers secure a special use permit for such projects. This change would introduce a public hearing process and require developers to submit detailed site plans, according to Tyler Creasy, the county’s director of community development.
The move comes in response to significant public concern, particularly following the clearing of a plot in Madison Heights that residents feared could become a data center site. Residents have actively pressed the Amherst County Board of Supervisors to draft an ordinance to end by-right development, which the board then directed staff to do.
During the public comment session, residents voiced appreciation for the county's efforts but reiterated their apprehension regarding the potential long-term health and environmental impacts of data centers. They urged commissioners to implement the strongest possible protections within state law.
The Planning Commission is slated to revisit the ordinance in July, and if approved, it will proceed to the Board of Supervisors for its initial review, with a target presentation date of August.