By John Howell
Businesses along Batesville’s Highway 6 corrider planning facelifts and enlargement got a go-ahead from the Planning Commission during its monthly meeting Monday night.

After site and building design reviews, commissioners unanimously approved a renovation and addition at Hallmark Ford and exterior renovations at Hampton Inn and Panola Plaza Shopping Center.

Jeff Gray of Hoyt Hayes Construction presented drawings of the plans for the Hallmark Ford dealership building that will add approximately 8,000 square feet to the existing structure. With Gray were Mark Heafner and Chad Heafner.

Commissioners had approved in an earlier meeting a variance that will allow Hallmark to use a metal exterior finish consistent with Ford corporate requirements.

Angela Swindoll of Jeff Swindoll Construction described for commissioners the renovations proposed for the Panola Plaza Shopping Center including the exterior surface product and color.

Richard Lauderdale of LLW Architects presented the proposed exterior surface product and color proposed for Hampton Inn’s renovation.

Commissioners also gave unanimous approval to the plat for a lot in Cedar Hill Subdivision on Harmon Road. Everett and Ruth Redd are the landowners.

Commission vice chairman Willie King presided during Monday’s meeting, which was the first meeting for newly appointed commissioner Bill Burnett. Also attending were commissioners Vic Wardlaw, Dave Billingsley, Barbara Bruce and Terry Townsend. The commissioners elected member Kim LaVergne chairman in her absence. King agreed to serve another term as vice chairman.