By: Ivey Schofield, The News Reporter

Cook Out, with its burgers, hot dogs, barbeque and shakes, is moving into the former KFC building on J.K. Powell Boulevard, according to Whiteville Planning Director Robert Lewis.

Lewis received the site plans on Monday afternoon. “They have some comments to correct, but we are starting the process of plans review,” he said.

Cook Out, founded in 1989 in Greensboro, has locations across the South, including Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Mississippi and Maryland, according to its website. There are over 100 locations in North Carolina, with three “coming soon” in Tarboro, Pembroke and Knightdale.

Its website does not list Whiteville, but plans are underway with Summey Engineering Associates, an Asheboro consulting and land planning agency, according to Lewis.

Cook Out will move into 615 N. JK Powell Blvd., according to Lewis. KFC vacated the facility after constructing a new building next door at the intersection of J.K. Powell Boulevard and Washington Street.

Cook Out and Summey Engineering Associates did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday morning. See NRcolumbus.com and Friday’s edition of The News Reporter for additional coverage as available.