The Plymouth Zoning Board of Appeals cleared the way for a residential transformation at 61 Crescent Avenue during Monday’s hearing, navigating concerns regarding septic capacity and room designations. Property owners David and Astrid Hendren sought a special permit to raze and rebuild a pre-existing non-conforming home situated on an 8,700-square-foot lot. Chris Anderson of Maryland Engineering described the existing structure as being in a dilapidated condition, necessitating a full tear-down to the foundation. We are incorporating a second story while staying below the height requirement, Anderson told the board, noting that while the footprint remains largely the same, the addition of pitched roof overhangs will slightly reduce the side and front setbacks.

The project sparked a detailed discussion regarding the home's future occupancy. Board member David Peck raised concerns regarding a Board of Health report limiting the site to three bedrooms. The Board of Health said it's only approved for three bedrooms, but there are four spaces that could be bedrooms, Peck observed, suggesting a deed restriction might be necessary to prevent future expansion. Property owner Astrid Hendren clarified the intent for the extra space, stating, We only wanted to build a two-bedroom, but we both work from home and need office space. She further explained that a proposed sun room lacks the dimensions and privacy of a standard bedroom. If we take the door away, it is not considered a bedroom. It truly is a three-bedroom house, Hendren added.

Member Kevin O'Reilly supported the applicant's view, noting that a proposed music room featured open railings rather than full walls. I disagree with the bedroom concern because the 'music room' has continuous walls on only two sides and railings on the others; it can't be used as a bedroom, O'Reilly said. While Peck maintained his preference for a formal restriction, the board ultimately moved toward approval with specialized engineering requirements. Chair Michael Main expressed support for the project, noting, The project is fine. It was a hard place to find, but I have no problems. Motion Made by M. Leary to approve case number 4212 with four standard conditions and three additional conditions from the engineering memo. Motion Passed 5-0.

In other business, the board addressed a modification request for an existing gas station under construction at 86 Sandra Street. Hal Chuba, a consulting engineer for the project, explained that the fire department had deemed the existing fire suppression system obsolete. Replacing the system requires the removal of the canopy’s fascia, which Chuba noted is roughly 40 years old. Two signs will be replaced with two signs of exactly the same size. We believe this is an opportunity to upgrade the fascia without increasing non-conformity, Chuba said. Building Inspector Paul Silva cautioned that while the board could grant zoning relief, the owner must still coordinate with other local authorities. Denise will render some sort of attachment to the decision. I will footnote that you need to make sure whatever aesthetic changes you make go through the Historic District Commission, Silva advised. Motion Made by D. Peck to declare the proposal to be insubstantial. Motion Passed 5-0.

The highly anticipated hearing for the TL Edward, Inc. gas station and convenience store at 360 Cherry Street was deferred at the applicant's request. The project, which involves a five-acre portion of a former gravel pit, has previously drawn scrutiny from residents due to its location within the Aquifer Protection Overlay District. Motion Made by M. Leary to continue the public hearing for 360 Cherry Street to May 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Motion Passed 5-0.