[MassHistPres] Preserving historic accessory / outbuildings

[Blever3043]

The Newton Historical Commission has noticed over the pastseveral years that historic accessory buildings (barns, carriage houses,auto-houses) are continually being demolished. The Demolition Delay has largely been ineffective in preserving thesebuildings, as it is easier to wait out in these cases than with primarybuildings, which have a greater value.  TheCommission and Planning staff have noted that there are two hurdles topreserving these buildings: one is the expensive, the other are the regulatoryrequirements involved in repurposing to commercial or residential use.  We have also noted that several communities allow repurposing into accessory apartments or commercial uses through a SpecialPermit.  Brookline has even created awonderful book on these buildings as a public education effort.


The Newton Historical Commission is presently proposing anordinance change to allow for an expedited (administrative) review process forconverting historic accessory buildings into accessory apartments as anincentive to reusing these buildings. This would not require a Special Permit and be based upon a set ofcriteria.  If other communities haveother methods for preserving these buildings, I would appreciate hearing them.


Thanks,


Brian Lever

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