Accomack Board of Zoning appeals upholds stop-work order for Wattsville Battery Storage Facility

The Accomack County Board of Zoning Appeals has upheld a stop-work order on a proposed battery storage facility in Wattsville, following strong opposition from nearby residents.

During a public hearing Wednesday morning, board members voted three to one to affirm an earlier decision by the county’s zoning administrator, halting construction on the project located along Chincoteague Road near Flemming Road.

Scout Storage LLC first received approval to operate the battery storage system after obtaining a conditional use permit in 2022. That permit carried a three-year expiration date ending in July of 2025. County officials later approved a site plan and land disturbance permit in March of this year, prompting questions about whether the project remained valid after the permit had expired.

Representatives for Scout Storage argued the company had met the requirements to extend the permit by completing a substantial portion of the project before the deadline. The developer says roughly 75 percent of construction was finished before July 2025.

However, Accomack County’s attorney contended the company was attempting to add conditions to the permit after the fact.

More than ten residents attended the hearing, with all public comments opposing the facility. Neighbors cited concerns about safety, potential impacts on property values, and changes to the character of their community.

Following the board’s decision, attorneys representing Scout Storage said the company respects the ruling but is disappointed with the outcome and plans to appeal in the coming days.