The steady growth of residential development in Coastal Delaware continues with the approval of the preliminary site plan of the community Willows at Northstar, a new multifamily workforce housing community west of Lewes.
Recently reviewed and approved by the Sussex County Planning and Zoning Commission in a December 10th, 2025, meeting, the project adds 94 residential units to the broader Northstar development.
With its mix of residential units, amenities, and open space, Willows at Northstar is part of ongoing growth in the area and reflects current county planning and zoning approaches.
Overview of the Willows at Northstar Proposal
Willows at Northstar was submitted as a Preliminary Site Plan under application number S 25 64 and Conditional Use 2499.
The proposal calls for the construction of 94 residential units, with a portion designated under Delaware’s Workforce Housing Program.
This designation is intended to support housing options for residents employed in essential industries who may struggle to find affordable housing close to work.
The development is planned on a 7.9 acre parcel located on the south side of Lewes Georgetown Highway and the north side of Beaver Dam Road.
The site is zoned Medium Density Residential, a classification adopted by Sussex County Council through Ordinance No. 3093 earlier this year.
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Amenities and Community Design Features
The Willows at Northstar site plan includes a range of amenities designed to support residents and create a connected community environment.
Central to the development is a clubhouse located on the first floor of one of the residential buildings.
- A clubhouse with lounge space for residents
- A fitness center within the clubhouse
- On site management offices
- Two bike storage lockers
- A designated playground and play area
- Private internal roads and landscaped open space
The inclusion of shared spaces reflects a growing trend in multifamily developments across Sussex County that prioritize walkability and resident interaction.
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Zoning History and County Approvals
The zoning and approval process for Willows at Northstar has unfolded over several years.
Sussex County Council unanimously approved a conditional use for affordable housing in early 2025, along with the zoning map amendment that changed the site from AR-1 Agricultural Residential to MR Medium Density Residential.
County planning staff confirmed that the Preliminary Site Plan complies with the Sussex County Zoning Code and meets all 18 conditions of approval attached to the conditional use.
While some agency approvals were still pending at the time of review, the applicant submitted response letters and a conveyance plan for commission consideration.
The motion passed by a 5-0 unanimous vote in favor.
Moving forward, final approval is delegated to the Planning & Zoning Commissions once all of the requested matters noted have been addressed and all agency approvals have been submitted to the Department. The developer will then therefore provide copies of the Revised Preliminary Site Plan & Landscape Plan at least ten (10) days prior to the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting they wish for their Application to be considered at.
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What This Means for Housing Near Lewes
As Coastal Delaware continues to attract new residents and businesses, projects like Willows at Northstar contribute to ongoing changes in the area’s housing landscape.
By following site planning, community amenities, and zoning requirements, the development reflects the type of multifamily housing being considered in the region.
To stay informed about local development news, planning decisions, and real estate trends, keep following the blog and share your thoughts in the comments!
Sources: December 10th Sussex County Planning and Zoning Meeting, Willows at Northstar Land Use Application Docket
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