For years, people have moved to western Loudoun county seeking a peaceful community removed from the hustle of urban sprawl. Within the last decade, the development of new neighborhoods and shopping centers has expanded the town of Purcellville, bringing housing and business opportunities to the area.

Renovations coming to downtown Purcellville intend to demolish the current buildings located along N 21st Street and develop a 171,000-square-foot mixed use project. The coming development, which was approved in 2013, will stand approximately 5-6 stories high and include 40 condominiums and 30,000 square feet of retail space.

Despite economic opportunities the development may create, the loss of beloved town staples, such as consignment store Re-Love It, and the erosion of downtown’s historical charm has resulted in community outcry. According to an article published by LoudounNow, the recent town council meeting was filled with the recitation of recorded emails from concerned residents who fear the buildings will make way for the modern development seen further east in Leesburg and Ashburn.

In recent weeks, notices of the Vineyard Square development have been shared in community mailboxes. Citizens are encouraged to reach out to the town council with their concerns and insight on the future of Purcellville.