County planners to weigh new zoning rules for rural resorts as opposition to Narrows project grows
The Cheatham County Planning Commission will meet Oct. 2 to consider recommending a major zoning amendment that could clear the way for large-scale rural resort developments, including a proposed $250 million project near the Narrows of the Harpeth.
The amendment would add new definitions to the county’s zoning resolution, creating a category for “Rural Resorts” — mixed-use developments allowed to include lodging, restaurants, spas, event centers, farm facilities, campgrounds and recreational amenities. Developments must be at least 375 acres and located adjacent to a Tennessee state park or wildlife management area.
It would also formalize rules for “Rural Resort Hotels” of up to 120 rooms, “Rural Resort Housing” available as short-term rentals, and “Rural Resort Access Easements” for connecting such projects to public roads.
If recommended by the Planning Commission, the amendment will head to the Cheatham County Commission for a final vote at its November meeting.
The proposal comes as Nashville developer Michael Hayes, CEO of C.B. Ragland, pursues Bell’s Reserve, a resort he envisions for 560 acres bordering the Narrows. Hayes has said the project would use about 100 acres for 80 cottage-style units, 40 branded residences, two small restaurants, a spa and outdoor recreation including hiking, horseback riding, kayaking and fishing.
Hayes has described the concept as inspired by luxury destinations such as Blackberry Farm in East Tennessee and Wildflower Farms in New York, where nightly rates start above $1,000.
The project has drawn strong resistance. Nearly 400 residents have signed a petition opposing the resort, citing concerns about traffic on Cedar Hill Road, potential harm to the Harpeth River and conflicts with the county’s 2022–2042 Growth Plan, which designates the site as rural. Some opponents are now calling on Gov. Bill Lee to purchase the land and incorporate it into the Tennessee State Parks system.
District 6 Commissioner Jimmy Hedgepath, who represents Kingston Springs, has said he will “vote with the people,” while Commissioner Mike Breedlove has voiced support, calling the resort “a great future” for the county.
Hayes has stressed the project remains in early planning stages and said he wants a “holistic community conversation” before moving forward. A public meeting on the proposal is scheduled for Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. at Bethany Hills Camp, where engineers, architects and development partners will take questions from residents.
The Planning Commission’s Thursday, Oct. 2 meeting will be held at the Cheatham County Courthouse in Ashland City at 6 p.m.
