NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A developer who wants to build a hotel by the Mall at Green Hills feels a group conspired against them. Now, the out-of-state company is asking for $10-million in damages over delays.
The Bedford Commons area looks uniform. They have a design committee and an association to make sure of it.
In October of 2018, a developer bought a parcel of land on Bedford Avenue with the intention of building a Hyatt Place Hotel there. It was approved by the Metro Planning Commission.
However, it appears residents oppose the plan. A neighbor who wants to remain anonymous said there are already two new hotels in the neighborhood said, "We don't need another one."
She said most people on Bedford Avenue near Abott Martin Road share her feelings.
"I hope they don't build it," she added
The developer, RevPar Green Hills LLC, bought the property for roughly $5 million. They said the Hyatt Place Hotel hasn't been built due to the strict guidelines provided by the Bedford Commons Association.
John Quinn represents RevPar and filed a complaint in federal court regarding the situation.
"Our client has filed this lawsuit because they feel that they've been treated unjustly," said Quinn.
His clients are seeking $10 million from the Bedford Commons Assoication, and those responsible for the delay.
"It's a 3 story hotel, it's not a 10 story, it's not something that's going to be made out of glass," Quinn said.
Trey Rochford and his company, Rochford Realty and Construction Co., Inc., are also named in the federal complaint. Their attorney did not immediately get back to us for comment.
Over the phone Rochford said he feels like the scapegoat in the situation.
The developer's attorney said Rochford is with the Bedford Commons Association, and his company manages the Hampton Inn on Crestmoor Road, which could be considered a competitor to the Hyatt Place Hotel.
Quinn said, "Our clients have alleged that there's a conspiracy among several of the defendants."
Some residents feel when big money comes to town, they usually get their way.
"Big money always talks."
The groups will meet in federal court in June.
