Cornering a New Plan

The property previously home to Doug’s Auto in downtown Southern Pines now has the green light for redevelopment after owner and developer Andy Bleggi made some changes to his initial concept. The plan is set to house multiple offerings, including restaurants, ice cream, office space and a hair salon.

The Historic District Commission (and local comment sections) were divided over one element of the project, a tower with a circular top, which has now been removed from the design. Commission member Karl Ecker summed it up by saying what we were all thinking: “No more ice cream cone.” The updated plan shows the main building as being one-story with no residential spaces. The two-story building at the back of the property is expected to house a wellness center concept on the ground floor and studio space above. You’ll know more when we do.