Some Echo Farms resident voice concerns about variance request for proposed project
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Some residents in the Echo Farms community in Wilmington are pushing back against a variance request for a piece of property near the community’s main entrance. Plans filed for a small property at one of the entrances to the Echo Farms community are raising...
Harbor project may risk Orton, other Cape Fear historic sites
Note: This story has been updated to correct the misspelling of Louis Bacon’s first name. Restoring land as close to how it was more than two centuries ago is by no means a cheap venture. Just ask Louis Moore Bacon. Since 2012, Bacon has invested more than $100 million...
Holly Ridge moves forward with annexation plan
HOLLY RIDGE, N.C. (WNCT) — The town of Holly Ridge has voted in favor Tuesday night of annexing about 1500 acres of land in Pender and Onslow counties. The idea was first brought up in August, but was denied then; however, the town is now taking the next steps in the process. “There’s a lot […]
5 Best Tex-Mex Restaurants in Wilmington, North Carolina to Try
Wilmington’s Tex-Mex restaurants offer a delightful mix of tradition, creativity, and coastal charm. Emphasizing fresh ingredients and customizable options, Islands Fresh Mex Grill offers build-your-own burritos, tacos, and salads in a casual setting. The bright, beachy décor and friendly staff make it a favorite for...
A big development in Leland just got bigger
Developers of one of Leland's largest developments have recently changed up their plans to make space for a hospital and more homes. With thousands of residential units being built along U.S. 74/76, a new hospital will be built in front of one of Leland's newest and largest master planned developments, Terrapin. In...
19-year-old arrested in New Hanover County and charged with death by distribution
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A 19-year-old was arrested on multiple drug charges including death by distribution. Leah Blankenship of Wilmington was arrested on Tuesday according to court documents by the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. Blankenship is charged with death by distribution, sell and deliver fentanyl, and...
New outdoor concert venue set to open this summer in Brunswick County
BOLIVIA, N.C. (WECT) - Two longtime friends are preparing to open an outdoor music venue on 350 acres in Bolivia after four years of development and permitting delays. Steve Shuttleworth and Peter Higgins said their friendship and shared interest in music led them to create Cumberland Woods. “Steve and I...
Wilmington’s Independence Mall to Welcome Discovery Cove Mini-Aquarium During NCAFF Renovation
Wilmington's Independence Mall is set to host an unusual tenant: an 8,000-square-foot mini-aquarium dubbed Discovery Cove. This interim setup is part of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (NCAFF)'s strategy to maintain its presence and connection with the public while its main location undergoes renovation...
Sheriff’s Office seeks help identifying man wanted for questioning in theft investigation
WINNABOW, N.C. (WECT) - The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is asking for the public’s help to identify a man wanted for questioning in a breaking and entering and larceny investigation. According to BCSO officials, the break-in and theft occurred Monday, Jan. 12, at Bell Swamp Connection at...
WECT INVESTIGATES: Governor says correctional officer shortage puts public safety at risk
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - Gov. Josh Stein is calling on state lawmakers to address a staffing crisis in North Carolina’s correctional system, where more than 2,800 positions have been open for at least six months, according to state data. As reported by WECT Investigates last week, the Department of...

















