Board of Zoning Appeals overrules planning commission approval of Concord gas station development

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Plans to build a gas station and restaurant in the Concord community were put on hold Wednesday following a decision by the Knox County Board of Zoning Appeals.

The BZA confirmed to 6 News that it voted in favor of an appeal to overturn the Knox County Planning Commission’s approval that would have allowed for a gas station to be put in in the 1000 block of Concord Road, on the north side of Second Drive.

According to the appeal letter, the proposed building’s floor plan would exceed the maximum permitted for the area’s zoning by 2,000 square feet, with the fuel canopy and other areas not being included in that 7,000 square-foot measurement. The appeal also notes concerns with how the building would not be compatible with the neighborhood’s character as well as traffic and safety concerns and concerns.

Notably, the appeal also mentions that the gas station would have a drive-through open as early as 5 a.m., bringing noise and lights from vehicles to the area early in the morning and potentially impacting residents’ quality of life.

Last month, the Knox County Planning Commission approved for the area to be rezoned for an EZ Stop fuel station, restaurant, and drive through facility. Residents told 6 News they were concerned about hearing a drive-through order while visiting loved ones’ graves nearby and the safety of families who are going on walks or children who are learning to ride bikes.

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