Planning commission recommends rezoning for concrete‑mixing plant despite resident noise concerns

The Pittsylvania County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Board of Supervisors rezone roughly 5.67 acres on Route 311 (Berry Hill Road) from M1 (light industrial) to M2 (heavy industrial) to permit a concrete‑mixing plant.

Leonard Johnson, speaking on behalf of the petitioner (Melissa Haristen), said the site previously operated as a woodyard and that rezoning the five‑acre tract would allow a concrete company to locate there. Nearby resident Sam Franklin asked whether the mailed notice reflected the correct parcel, sought confirmation that only the 5.67‑acre tract would be rezoned, and pressed for the proposed hours of operation and noise expectations.

Mr. Atkins, who said he is associated with the ready‑mix operator, told the commission operations could occur from the very early morning (roughly 2–3 a.m.) through the early evening (6–7 p.m.). He said the company will not crush rock on site — aggregate will be delivered by truck — and that some cement will be delivered by rail using a spur on the tract. He characterized likely noise as comparable to semi trucks entering and exiting a facility and said he does not expect crushing or blasting at the site.

After discussion the commission voted 5‑0 to recommend rezoning the parcel to M2; the recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors, which has final authority. Commissioners and the petitioner did not provide a detailed truck frequency estimate at the hearing; residents asked for additional noise and operational details that could be reviewed during permitting.

Next steps: If the Board of Supervisors approves the rezoning, operational permits and site plans will be required before the facility can operate.