Residents oppose Essex downtown development citing scale and neighborhood impact

In the heart of Essex, Massachusetts, a heated discussion unfolded during the recent Planning Board meeting on July 2, 2025, as residents voiced their concerns over a proposed development project that threatens to reshape the character of their historic downtown. The atmosphere was charged with apprehension as community members gathered to express their discontent regarding the scale and impact of the new building.

One resident passionately reiterated their worries about the project's size, emphasizing that even after modifications made in response to a previous town meeting vote against water and sewer access, the revised plans still loom large over the downtown area. “The plans as submitted don't show any context for the scale of the proposed project,” they argued, urging the board to delay any decisions until clearer images could be provided to illustrate how the new structure would fit among existing buildings.

The resident drew comparisons to a local brewery, noting that the proposed building's footprint of approximately 6,400 square feet is only slightly smaller than the brewery's 6,700 square feet. This comparison was intended to highlight the potential disruption a building of such size could cause in a neighborhood characterized by smaller, historic structures. “It is a blow,” they lamented, suggesting that the development could permanently alter the essence of downtown Essex.

Concerns extended beyond aesthetics; residents worried about the implications for their quality of life. The speaker pointed out that while the developer sought to add three additional living units, the community had already expressed a preference for smaller-scale developments. “Three units are still going to be bringing new housing to Essex, which would be great,” they noted, questioning the necessity of maximizing profit at the expense of neighborhood harmony.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the sentiment among residents was overwhelmingly against the proposed project. Many felt that the additional units would not significantly benefit the town's economy and could instead lead to a decline in their quality of life during and after construction. “We have built our lives here and love calling Essex our home,” one resident stated, encapsulating the emotional weight of the discussion.

The Planning Board now faces the challenge of balancing development with the preservation of community character, as residents continue to advocate for a vision of Essex that honors its historic roots while accommodating growth. The outcome of this meeting could set a precedent for future developments in the town, making it a pivotal moment for Essex's residents and their cherished community.