In 2022, a developer proposed a shopping center on U.S. 17 in Leland. The project, which was named Shoppes at Savannah Branch, was planned to be built across from The Villages at Brunswick Forest, another shopping center that houses several major businesses including Lowes Foods.
There have not been any updates on the project since 2022, when the proposal sparked community speculation about which grocery store would occupy the 48,000-square-foot building that was planned.
Here’s what to know about the current status of the project.
The future of the shopping center is uncertain
Columbia Properties, the Georgia-based developer that originally proposed the concept, has not moved forward with the project, Leland communications manager Jessica Jewell said.
However, Columbia has not sold the property. With Leland’s consistent rise in population, the developer may retain interest in the shopping center. A representative from Columbia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The development would include Leland’s eighth major grocer
While the grocery store remains unnamed, many residents expressed hope for either a Wegmans or a Publix. Several other shopping centers developed by Columbia have been anchored by a Publix, making it a likely candidate.
Leland currently has seven major grocery stores. Harris Teeter, Lowes Foods, Aldi and a Walmart Supercenter are all located along U.S. 17 within a short distance from the proposed development. The town also has a Piggly Wiggly and two Food Lion locations.
Spaces for businesses are still available
If approved, the shopping center would be roughly 17 acres and have 10 storefronts and two outparcels, according to Columbia’s website. The website indicates plans for a Grand Nails salon and an EmergeOrtho clinic.
Applications for tenants are posted on Columbia’s website.