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Planning board grants performance-zone waivers for 1604 Hooksett Road; public safety and ADA conditions noted
Summary
The Hooksett Planning Board granted performance-zone waivers May 5 for a diver-and-dolphin feature and related landscaping at 1604 Hooksett Road and approved conditions, after the applicant described a hyperbaric-style chamber and staff summarized fire and ADA concerns.
The Hooksett Planning Board voted unanimously May 5 to grant performance-zone waivers for 1604 Hooksett Road, allowing a sculptural diver-and-dolphin feature and adjustments to the site’s landscape and frontage, subject to standard conditions and that the applicant address Fire Department and ADA requirements.
Applicant John Merck, who intends to operate a commercial hyperbaric-style chamber at the site, told the board the sculptures relate to the business: "the business is all about hyperbaric chambers... so it's the reason for the dolphins and the diver," he said, describing the equipment and safety systems. Merck said the facility will use compressed air; he emphasized there is no enriched-oxygen system in the chamber and described built-in safety valves, intercoms and a GoPro camera to monitor occupants.
Town staff presented background and noted the site sits inside the performance zone; the application is an update to an existing, older landscaping plan and not an intensification of use. Staff recommended limited updates rather than full landscaping replacement because the property is preexisting and the project does not increase the site footprint.
Board members asked about ADA access and exterior lighting. Several trustees said the applicant’s proposed painting, repaired roofing and modest front planting scheme would satisfy the goal of improving the property’s appearance. Board members also required the applicant to submit final landscape details, a simple architectural elevation or rendering so the board can see the intended façade and confirmation that any lighting will not shine into neighboring residences.
After public comments and staff conditions the board granted three waivers from the zoning ordinance and approved application conditions. The waivers and approval include standard conditions subsequent and require the applicant to provide the final landscaping plan, ADA sign-off where applicable, and to meet any Fire Department requirements prior to issuance of any occupancy documentation.
The board recorded the approval and set a timetable for the applicant to submit required documentation to staff for final sign-off.
