Zoning board approves 5-foot setback variance for addition at 17 Norwich Road

The Nashua Zoning Board of Adjustment on March 25 approved a variance allowing homeowners Christopher M. Fairbanks and Monica L. Dufresne to build a 20-by-24-foot, one-story addition that will encroach 5 feet into the 20-foot front-yard setback at 17 Norwich Road.

The requested variance from land use code section 190-16, table 16-3 passed by a 5-0 vote after the board heard testimony from the applicants and letters of neighborhood support. The board chair noted applicants may begin work after the 30-day appeal period expires.

Christopher M. Fairbanks, the property owner, told the board the family needs space for a growing household: “We have a 2 year old at home, and we have 1 on the way,” and said the design keeps public sightlines and utility access intact. He said the addition will match the house exterior and intended to preserve neighborhood character.

Board members discussed lot constraints and the configuration of the corner parcel at Norwich and Tenby. Robert Shaw said the corner placement made the proposed location “about the only reasonable spot” for an addition, and that the scale is consistent with nearby homes. Andrew Sylvia moved to approve the variance; Steve Lionel seconded. The five members voting in favor were Josh Neely, JP Boucher, Robert Shaw, Steve Lionel and Andrew Sylvia.

Two written letters of support from neighbors were entered into the record, including a letter from Adam and Sarah Wolf of 22 Norwich Road and a letter from Alvin K. Dudley Jr. The board found the application met the variance criteria under the land-use code and concluded the addition would not harm municipal services or adjacent property values.

The board staff reminded the applicants there is a 30-day appeal period following the decision; otherwise applicants may proceed and are welcome to contact staff with questions.