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Beaufort Inn Hotel Expansion: South Carolina Supreme Court Decision

Artist's rendering of the proposed expansion for the Beaufort Inn, blending modern amenities with historical charm.

News Summary

The South Carolina Supreme Court has issued a ruling in favor of 303 Associates regarding the proposed expansion of the Beaufort Inn. This decision marks the end of lengthy disputes with the Historic Beaufort Foundation over zoning compliance and historical preservation concerns. The ruling allows for the addition of 72 rooms and other amenities to the existing hotel as part of a $75 million project. While city officials are relieved, the Historic Beaufort Foundation remains concerned about the impact on the area’s historic character.

Beaufort: South Carolina Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Developer in Hotel Expansion Dispute

The South Carolina Supreme Court has ruled in favor of 303 Associates in a lengthy legal battle regarding the expansion of the Beaufort Inn.

Key Details of the Ruling

The ruling concludes years of disputes with the Historic Beaufort Foundation.
The court denied petitions for a writ of certiorari in two significant cases:

Historic Beaufort Foundation v. City of Beaufort
West Street Farms, LLC and Mix Farms, LLC v. City of Beaufort

The Historic Beaufort Foundation contended that the hotel expansion violates city zoning codes and is incompatible with the historic character of the area. In contrast, city officials expect this ruling will resolve ongoing litigation related to the project.

Reactions to the Decision

Dick Stewart, Chair of the board for 303 Associates, expressed satisfaction, indicating that the decision affirmed the legality of both the developer’s actions and city procedures.

Conversely, Cynthia Jenkins from the Historic Beaufort Foundation expressed her disappointment, advocating for a reevaluation of the city’s zoning ordinances.

Expansion Project Details

The proposed expansion plan for the Beaufort Inn includes:

Adding 72 rooms to the existing 46-room hotel.
Incorporating amenities such as a full-service restaurant and a pool.
Part of a larger $75 million development initiative in downtown Beaufort.

Additional components of the development plan consist of:

A 496-space parking garage.
19 two-bedroom apartments.
Extra meeting space linked to the Beaufort Inn.

Background on Legal Challenges

303 Associates has faced multiple legal challenges but has successfully won all previous cases. The ongoing litigation surrounding the project has delayed development and impacted downtown parking availability.

Notably, former Mayor Stephen Murray resigned partially due to public dissatisfaction stemming from the contentious development disputes.