FRANKLIN, Tenn. -
A popular shopping attraction in downtown Franklin has new owners.
A Bowling Green, Kentucky group bought The Factory at Franklin for $24 million from the man who turned the rundown factory slated to be leveled for a movie stunt into a thriving shopping area.
The group, the Factory at Franklin LLC, will take over the mall and their not yet revealed plans for the 12 buildings and 20 acres.
The seller, Calvin Lehew, originally purchased the property from the city of Franklin for $1 million just as movie producers were going to level the 1929 buildings for a special effect in a movie.
Lehew said he'd hate to see it change but it's no longer his call.
The space currently has 72 tenants and holds restaurants, galleries and a performance space.
Lehew completed the transaction the day after his 73rd birthday.
