ZBA grants variance to install underground propane tank at Robbins Truck Parts property

The Woburn Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance allowing installation of an underground propane storage tank at the Robbins Truck Parts site (filed by Anchor Realty Trust) after the applicant explained ground‑condition constraints at the originally proposed rear, south‑easterly corner of the lot.

Peter Spinazzola, trustee for Anchor Realty Trust, and his representative told the board that the ground in the previously proposed corner was fill and unstable — material the applicant described as compacted macadam and mixed fill that a propane supplier’s engineer said would not safely support the load. The applicant said moving the underground tank closer to the front of the parcel, left of the parking‑lot entrance and away from the traveled way, would place it in better soil and out of vehicle traffic.

The petition described the tank as wholly underground, with above‑ground bollards for protection where necessary; the applicant said no vehicles would be driven over the tank location. Board members asked whether the new location had been tested for suitable soils; the applicant said testing had not showed slippage but that additional excavation and engineered fill could be provided if necessary.

After board discussion a member moved to approve the variance for the front‑yard placement of the underground propane tank; the motion passed. The clerk was reminded to prepare and file the decision and that any conditions and required site protections (bollards, trenching and repaving, and site restoration) should be reflected in the decision and plans.

Votes: motion to approve carried (vote recorded in favor).