Developer, residents to discuss concerns over proposed north Raleigh strip mall

Charlotte-based developer Morgan Property Group recently submitted a proposal to the city to rezone the 12-acre site at the intersection of Falls of Neuse and Dunn roads to allow construction of a 50,000-square-foot supermarket, several smaller stores and a bank.

About 2,000 residents of the nearby Bedford, Falls River, River Oaks, Wood Spring, Whittington and Oakcroft subdivisions have in recent weeks signed a petition against the move, saying it's too much retail in a residential area.

Morgan Property President Trey Morgan said the company would conduct a "listening tour" over the next 90 days, going door to door to meet residents in person and hammer out a proposal acceptable to all.

“Morgan Property Group is coming to Bedford and surrounding areas to listen to the communities’ concerns about development for the Falls of Neuse/Dunn Roads area,” Morgan said in a statement. “We want the residents to know we are coming to your door to get your input. We want to listen to your ideas.”

The current zoning on the property would allow for a 24-hour convenience store, a fast food restaurant or a bar, but he said his company has no interest in building any of those on the site.

“It’s no secret that Publix Grocery Store has an interest in this site. A grocery-anchored retail center would be designed for convenience of the immediate community," Jeff Surrency, vice president of development for Morgan Property, said in a statement. "We want to work with local residents, planning staff and city and county leaders on the proposed plan."

The rezoning request will likely be heard by Raleigh officials in March.