GOOCHLAND, Va. (WWBT) - The Goochland County Planning Commission voted 3-1 just before 3 a.m. Friday to recommend denying a proposal for a new gun range off Walton Road.
The recommendation came after nearly six hours of public comment and more than an hour of discussion among commissioners.
Residents raised concerns about several aspects of the proposed 85-acre facility, including potential noise, impacts on nearby property values and environmental concerns related to ammunition.
The proposed facility would include shooting programs geared toward youth. The proposal does not include handgun or rifle shooting, according to the developer .
Neighbors who live along Walton Road described the area as quiet and rural. Some said they are concerned that the character of the area could change significantly if the gun range is approved and built.
Noise was one of the primary concerns raised during the hearing. Residents also questioned the possibility of pollution and lead contamination from ammunition.
The developer told commissioners that a noise study had been conducted, even though one was not required as part of the proposal.
After hearing from residents and the applicant, commissioners spent more than an hour reviewing the concerns raised during the hearing and adding amendments to the proposal before taking the vote.
The Planning Commission’s vote is a recommendation, so it will now move to the Goochland County Board of Supervisors, which has the final say on the proposal.
The Board is expected to take up the project during its October 6 meeting.