A proposal to convert a five-acre residential property on Cherry Tree Road into a large-scale wedding and events venue has been withdrawn following an outcry from nearby residents.
St. Johns County Planning Coordinator Jennifer Gutt confirmed to The Citizen Tuesday that the application for a special use ermit at 855 Cherry Tree Road was pulled by the applicants before it could be heard by the county’s Planning and Zoning Agency on Thursday.
“Staff was notified that the applicant is withdrawing the application for Special Use Permit,” Gutt said. “Our Land Development code requires the PZA to accept the withdraw once an application has been publicly noticed. Staff anticipates that the PZA will accept the applications withdraw.”
The proposal had stirred strong opposition from the surrounding Oakbrook neighborhood and other nearby homeowners.
Residents argued the venue would upend the quiet character of their community, which they described as a haven for families, retirees, and long-time residents.
The withdrawn plan called for using existing structures, open yard space, tents, and a planned open-air barn to host weddings, corporate gatherings, baby showers and other celebrations with up to 300 guests.
BOARD MEMBERS SPAR OVER PARKING METER PENALTIES
Events would have been permitted seven days a week from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m., with music ending at 10 p.m. and guests required to depart by 11 p.m.
Parking was proposed along the eastern boundary of the lot, with traffic routed through two existing driveways.
County staff had flagged possible compatibility concerns, noting the property is surrounded on multiple sides by single-family homes. Those concerns were echoed by neighbors who submitted letters of opposition and circulated a Change.org petition.
Signed by hundreds of Oakbrook residents, the petition argued that bringing a commercial events venue into a residential enclave would disrupt their quality of life and diminish property values.
“Several Oakbrook homes back up directly to this property,” it stated. “The increased noise, lighting, and activity would severely impact those residents’ ability to enjoy their homes and outdoor spaces.”
