Developer proposes 21 cottage homes on Constitution Drive site amid zoning changes

In a recent Planning Board meeting held on May 5, 2025, in Bedford, NH, discussions centered around a proposed development on Constitution Drive that could significantly reshape the area. The property owner, Tom, presented a concept for a new residential project featuring cottage-style homes, aiming to address community needs while also preparing for his retirement.

Tom, who has owned the land for 15 years, initially sought to build a 1,000 square foot office building, a plan that faced numerous setbacks due to economic downturns and community opposition. Now, with a potential national client interested in a larger 100,000 square foot building, Tom is considering pivoting to a residential development that aligns with recent zoning changes allowing for cottage-style housing.

The proposed plan includes 21 cottage units, each approximately 900 to 1,000 square feet, arranged in clusters around a central green space. This design aims to foster a sense of community while providing a secure environment for residents, particularly appealing to those looking to downsize or seeking low-maintenance living options. The development would be managed by a condominium association, ensuring upkeep of shared spaces and amenities.

Bob Veil from TF Moran, the engineering firm involved, highlighted that the site would be served by municipal water, sewer, and gas, with no impact on wetlands anticipated. Traffic studies suggest that the development would generate minimal additional traffic, well below the threshold requiring extensive traffic analysis.

Planning Board members expressed support for the cottage concept, noting its alignment with community desires for smaller, more manageable homes. However, they raised questions about the layout and the number of units per cluster, emphasizing the need for further refinement to meet zoning requirements.

The meeting underscored the importance of community input, with Tom expressing a desire to collaborate with neighbors to ensure the development meets local expectations. As Bedford continues to evolve, this proposed project could provide much-needed housing options while enhancing the community's character. The Planning Board will continue to review the proposal, with further discussions anticipated in future meetings.