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Planning Commission recommends approval for mulch and aggregate yard on Northumberland Highway
Summary
The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend a Conditional Use Permit for a mulch, topsoil and crushed‑concrete operation on Tax Map Parcel 9-(1)-23; staff read eight conditions covering permits, on‑site sales, lighting, signage and storage. No public comments were received.
The Northumberland County Planning Commission on Jan. 15 recommended that the Board of Supervisors approve a Conditional Use Permit for a light‑industry operation on Tax Map Parcel 9-(1)-23 along Northumberland Highway.
Benton M. Hayden (owner) and Michael Bryant (applicant) described plans for a mulch and aggregate yard that would produce and sell wood mulch, topsoil, crushed concrete and asphalt millings. The applicants said a sales office would be located on the parcel, the site would be enclosed by chain‑link fencing and pole‑mounted lighting would be directed downward to avoid glare onto Route 360 and neighboring properties. Hayden and Bryant confirmed products would be sold off the property and that signage is planned.
Planner Stuart McKenzie read eight recommended conditions the Commission considered, including: obtaining all necessary regulatory permits (including Virginia Department of Transportation approvals where required); locating a sales office on the same parcel for retail transactions; maintaining a clean, organized operation; storing only equipment associated with the business on site; compliance of signage with the Zoning Ordinance; ensuring all lighting is non‑reflective and directed downward; prohibiting storage of dry goods in cargo containers; and returning the permit to the Board for possible revocation if conditions are not met.
Commissioners asked about customers (contractors, builders and homeowners), onsite signage, fencing and lighting, and whether VDOT would require a turn lane. The applicants said VDOT had confirmed a turn lane would not be required given recent changes lowering the speed limit and reducing four lanes to two. Staff said seven adjoining property owners had been notified; no public speakers signed up and the public hearing was opened and closed without comment.
John Kost moved to recommend approval, Roger McKinley seconded, and the Commission voted unanimously in favor (Commissioners Chris Cralle, Roger McKinley, Vivian Diggs, Patrick O’Brien, Allen Garland, Garfield Parker, John Kost, Heidi Wilkins‑Corey, James Michel and Charles Williams voted Aye; James Brann recorded as n/a). The Commission’s action is a recommendation; final approval would be decided by the Board of Supervisors at a subsequent public hearing.
The Planning Commission advised the applicants that the Board hearing will occur next month and staff will notify them of the date and time.
