Legacy Engineering proposes cidery development at Ann and Hope warehouse

The Planning Board meeting on March 4, 2025, in Millis, Massachusetts, focused on a proposal for a new cidery at the former Ann and Hope retail store. Dan Merricken from Legacy Engineering presented the application for a special permit on behalf of the applicant, Shannon Decker, and project architect, Alex Kirske.

The proposed cidery, named Storm Along Cider, aims to occupy the front portion of the building, which features a red and white facade. Merricken explained that the project will involve interior renovations and facade improvements, with no significant changes to site parking or utilities. The plan includes retaining existing overhead doors for equipment access and maintaining the current layout of the building.

Merricken emphasized the importance of getting the cidery operational quickly, noting that the first phase of the project focuses on production. A future phase may include an outdoor dining area, but that proposal was not part of the current discussion. The cidery plans to produce cider, small quantities of wine, and beer primarily for an on-site tasting room, which will occupy no more than 25% of the production area.

The meeting highlighted the potential for revitalizing the building and enhancing the local economy through the introduction of this new business. The Planning Board will review the application further, considering the proposed improvements and the overall impact on the community.