Neighbors push for zoning change for industrial site eyed by data centers
Residents in Madison Heights, Amherst County, are pushing for a zoning change on an industrial site after trees were cleared, sparking concerns it could become a data center by right. The Amherst County Economic Development Authority owns the land, and data center companies have expressed interest. The Board of Supervisors will discuss changing the zoning language to give residents more control over future developments.
Residents in Madison Heights, Amherst County, Virginia, are voicing strong concerns over a large industrial property on Kings Road, owned by the Amherst County Economic Development Authority, that they fear could soon host a data center. The property's current industrial zoning allows data centers to be built "by right," meaning no special approval is needed from local leaders. Neighbors, including Sky Packet and Theresa Allman, grew suspicious after observing extensive tree clearing on the site.
In response, residents have requested a zoning change for the land, aiming to give citizens a voice in the development process and ensure their concerns are considered. Amherst County Supervisor Chris Adams acknowledged that staff has been directed to gather information and comparative data to explore options. Adams clarified that changing the zoning language might not completely prevent a data center but would introduce more steps, allowing the county to exert greater control over any potential development framework.
While the Amherst County Economic Development Authority confirmed that data center companies have inquired about the property, no formal development applications have been approved. The community's immediate goal is to initiate a public discussion about the current "by right" zoning. The Amherst County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to discuss the zoning of this particular land at an upcoming meeting.