[MassHistPres] demolition permit question

[William Moonan]

The Bedford HDC prevented one applicant from demolishing some stores in the
center of its historic district prior to knowing what, and, specifically,
when any new structure would be built.  The new structure was approved over
a long series of hearings, but, because the developer had not finalized
financing for the replacement building, the approval was subject to
presentation to the board of definitive proof that financing had been
secured.

 

This proved to be beneficial in that the original building is still there
and being used.  Financing still has not been arranged.  If we had not done
this, at best, we'd be looking at an empty field, or, possibly, a hole in
the ground.

 

In another case, the developer wanted to clear-cut a wood lot in preparation
for building a new building.  The Bedford HDC refused to allow this to be
done without knowing and approving the new building.  The woods was
preferable to a field, and there was a desire to save as many trees as we
could to surround the new structure.  The lot was not ever clear-cut, and
many trees were saved when the approved building was finally built.

 

So, in my opinion, you certainly can refuse to approve the demolition
without knowing what will replace it.

 

Bill Moonan

Chairman

Bedford Historic District Commission

 

-----Original Message-----
From: masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu
[mailto:masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu] On Behalf Of melanie deware
Sent: Friday, January 01, 2010 6:11 PM
To: masshistpres at cs.umb.edu
Subject: [MassHistPres] demolition permit question

 

For those of you who may be following our news, Easton may be facing the
demolition of our historic Shovel Shops/Ames Shovel Works complex.  During
discussions, the question was raised as to whether "vacant lot" was a
suitable reuse of the property as indicated by the owner on the demolition
application.   We have heard many differing opinions on the answer.  Anyone
know of any precedent that may help the Historical Commission (we believe it
is not a suitable reuse)?
 
Melanie Deware
Chairman, Easton Historical Commission

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