Ashton Woods Homes proposes 183 single family units in Southwest Cherokee rezoning request

The Cherokee County Planning Commission held a public hearing on September 2, 2025, to discuss a proposal for rezoning 110.75 acres from agricultural (AG) to R15, which would allow for the development of 183 single-family detached residential units. The site, previously used as a small family farm, is located near existing residential subdivisions, including Cedar Mill Crossing and Devonshire.

The proposed R15 zoning would permit a maximum density of 2.904 units per acre, which is higher than the surrounding R20 and R40 zones that allow for 2.178 and 1.089 units per acre, respectively. The development plan includes existing residential structures, a lake, and a stream, with a proposed 31.5 acres of open space to be preserved as part of the project.

During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the compatibility of the proposed lot sizes with nearby neighborhoods. The applicant's plan suggests smaller lot sizes of 1,500 square feet, which some argue may not align with the character of the surrounding areas. However, the applicant emphasized that the development would maintain a suburban style and include public access to trails and greenways, connecting to nearby county-owned property.

The Southwest Cherokee plan, created in 2019, envisions a largely residential area with open spaces and limited commercial resources. The plan supports denser development along major roadways and within mixed-use centers. The applicant argued that the proposed development aligns with these goals, providing a moderate density of 1.65 units per acre, which they believe is appropriate for the area.

The Planning Commission will consider the proposal's merits, including the potential for increased housing stock and community amenities, against the backdrop of existing land use plans and community feedback. The outcome of this hearing could significantly impact the future development landscape of Southwest Cherokee.