[MassHistPres] Strategies at the end of a demo delay

[aubrey theall]

Have any Historical Commissions successfully thwarted issuance of a demo permit at the end of a demo delay?  If so how was it done?

Were in the last 5 weeks or so of the demo delay for one of the most historic homes in Groton (170 Old Ayer Rd., the Oliver Prescott Jr. House, built 1791).

The owner (Groton Hill Music Center) is 100% determined to demolish it.  They are seeking to create a buffer around their new music venue (it’s not being redeveloped).  They will not entertain any serious discussion of preservation in place.  They also will not cooperate with any form of fundraising (i.e. CPC application, capital campaign, etc.).

We have put considerable effort into trying to get the house moved as it seems to be the only viable preservation strategy but it isn’t going to happen.  It’s a 7 figure project plus a building lot we don’t have.  Many individuals have looked at it and found it to be uneconomical.

blob:https://mhc-macris.net/c1a343c6-c4e5-4609-9654-2372053a65bb


Aubrey Theall
Groton Historical Commission




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