Add to it recent growth from the arrival of Interstate 40, proximity to Wrightsville Beach and expected annexation into Wilmington, and the shopping center was poised to take advantage.

According to an article in the Oct. 27, 1995, Wilmington Morning Star, the complex was set to double its size with 21 new stores, anchored by a Belk specialty store.

Located at the corner of Military Cutoff and Eastwood roads, the addition would make it twice as large as most area strip malls, including Hanover Center (with just 16 stores in 1995). The Belk at Landfall Center would have several items similar to its Independence Mall location, but also include a gift shop. Some current tenants were expected to move into the larger expansion area.