Landscaping Company Would Replace Main Street Auto Dealer Under Proposal

Durham's Planning and Zoning Commission has scheduled a public hearing for next month after receiving a proposal from a local landscape construction company to consolidate its operations in Durham.

On Wednesday, Torrinson Stone & Garden requested approval from the commission to move its operations in Middlefield and Durham to one location at 422 Main Street, Durham.

The location is currently occupied by Mercedez Benz by Ken Marino.

John Corona, an attorney representing Torrison, said no substantial changes would be made to the site to accomodate the new business. He said the company planned to install storage areas for landscaping materials and a six foot high, solid vinyl fence that would wrap around the property.

While some commission members expressed concern that the change of business could result in more noise for neighbors others were cautious to move forward without giving the public an opportunity to weigh in.

"I think this certainly appears to be a good use of the property ... but the concern that I would have is that we would want to avoid another Greenland Realty type situation," said commission member Campbell Barrett.

The commission voted 6-3 in favor of holding a public hearing on Oct. 3 at 8 p.m.