Last week the Conservation Commission issued an Order of Conditions (OoC) permitting the development of 13 residential duplex dwellings (26 total housing units) located in northern Groton, bordering the GCT’s Shepley Hill conservation land to the west, Sand Hill Road to the north, and Longley Road to the east. The GCT believes the project as permitted does not sufficiently protect the natural resources of the property as required by the state’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulations. We are requesting the DEP to review the project and issue a Superseding Order of Conditions.
-
Why the GCT objected to the Order of Conditions. The GCT feels the OoC does not meet the Wetlands Protection Act and DEP regulations for a project in an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC). A development of this size would compromise the integrity of the ecosystems on the site and in the area, and it would set a dangerous precedent for future developments requiring Conservation Commission approval.
-
What the GCT voted to do. Under state law, the GCT can ask the state to issue a Superseding Order of Conditions for the project. Because such a request must be filed within 10 days, the GCT held an emergency meeting and voted to file this application.
-
Why ask for a Superseding Order of Conditions. The GCT feels the CC did not require the applicant to adhere to all the provisions of state regulations. The applicant should have presented an alternative plan with reduced wetlands impact given the site's location in an Area of Critical Environmental Concern and its proximity to mapped Priority Habitat Areas. We are asking the Department of Environmental Protection to review the project and require the applicant to present a revised plan.
-
The GCT does not oppose a development. The GCT is not trying to prevent the development of this site. We believe a significant portion of the proposed project can still be permitted if all DEP regulations are followed. It is exactly our mission and our responsibility to ensure this development proceeds in accordance with state and local regulations. The GCT has only asked the DEP to require compliance with its regulations.
-
What you can do. The Groton Planning Board’s public hearing on the project will continue on March 11. The GCT plans to raise our concerns under the town’s Zoning Bylaw, as we believe the applicant is asking the Planning Board to waive too many of its requirements. You can attend this public meeting and support the GCT's position with letters to the Board.
