Exciting News for Candy Lovers in the Outer Banks!
Get ready, candy enthusiasts! The Outer Banks are about to get a whole lot sweeter with the addition of three brand-new candy stores! Yes, you heard that right! Two new locations of Sugar Planet are set to pop up in Kitty Hawk and Corolla, and there’s a shiny new Sugar Kingdom store on the way in Avon. This is big news for anyone who has a sweet tooth and loves a good sugar fix!
Where’s it Happening?
First up, let’s talk about the Sugar Planet locations. There are already two of these colorful candy havens in operation—one in Kill Devil Hills and another in Nags Head. Now, the Regional Manager, Naor Hilel, has confirmed that the new Kitty Hawk store, located at 5201 N Croatan Highway, is on track to open by May or June 2024. Can you believe it? That means just in time for the summer season!
This store is just across U.S. 158 from the former Sentara Medical Center, and as of now, construction is almost complete! Hilel has assured us that it will be “ready for summer,” which has local residents buzzing with excitement. It seems like only yesterday that the building permit was issued back in August 2022, but the time for candy-filled memories is almost upon us!
What’s Happening in Corolla?
Now, let’s take a peek at the other Sugar Planet set to open in Corolla! The spot at 510 Hunt Club Dr. is undergoing renovations in a spacious 7,700 sq. ft. building on a 1.9-acre parcel right at The Currituck Club’s entrance. Hilel mentioned, “We’re now going to work on new painting for the building and getting new signs up. It’s gonna look nice,” and who wouldn’t agree with that? It sounds like a colorful wonderland!
The local Public Information Officer, Randall Edwards, pointed out that they’re still under county oversight. Recently, they passed a rough inspection and will continue working to meet the necessary standards. This just goes to show that they are serious about popping up the sweetest place in town!
New Sugar Kingdom Store Coming to Avon
On a slightly different note, Sugar Kingdom is entering the scene with a new location at 40220 N. Carolina Hwy 12 in Avon, currently home to Pirates Beachwear. What’s interesting is that Sugar Kingdom is a completely different company from Sugar Planet, and unfortunately, attempts to get in touch with anyone from their team have been unsuccessful, adding a bit of mystery to the ever-expanding candy scene!
Interestingly enough, Sugar Planet’s existing stores used to go by the name Sugar Kingdom. They recently made the switch to Sugar Planet, which may leave folks scratching their heads about the connection—or lack thereof—between the two brands. But one thing is for sure: both establishments have their eyes set on bringing sugary joy to residents and tourists alike!
Local Skepticism and Future Plans
With new candy shops opening, some locals have voiced concerns about how this might change the flavor of Kitty Hawk. One resident described it as contributing to the “Myrtle Beachification” of the Outer Banks. However, Rob Testerman, the Director of Planning and Inspections, mentioned that these candy stores are permitted uses within the zoning regulations, leaving them no choice but to approve their opening. It’s all above board, folks!
In fact, it’s interesting to note that the town had promised to maintain its low density and low-rise residential beach community feel. They even released a new Land Use plan in September 2023 after gathering community opinions. The goal? To preserve Kitty Hawk’s unique coastal identity through thoughtful design and future development—something that many residents truly value.
The Sweet Future Awaits
So, keep your eyes peeled as these new candy havens prepare to open their doors, bringing with them the promise of sweets, smiles, and delightful treats. The Outer Banks is about to get a lot sweeter, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for the community and its visitors!
