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Coventry planning commission approves use variance, 699‑sq‑ft addition for 1160 Main Street auto garage
Summary
On Oct. 27 the Coventry Planning Commission approved a use variance and preliminary minor land development for 1160 Main Street, allowing a 699‑square‑foot addition to an existing automotive repair garage and confirming no sewer connection is required at this time.
Coventry — The Coventry Planning Commission on Oct. 27 approved a use variance and preliminary minor land development for 1160 Main Street, allowing the construction of a 699‑square‑foot bay onto an existing 1,260‑square‑foot automotive repair garage and authorizing continued automotive repair use in the General Business zone.
Attorney Thomas Cronin, representing owner Alexander Deos Jr. and applicant PH Properties/Diaz LLC, told the commission the garage has operated in that location since about 1967 and that adding a single angled bay will improve circulation without new curb cuts. "It's probably the least inconspicuous project I've ever brought before you," Cronin said, describing the building as a long‑standing, preexisting nonconforming automotive use.
The commission and staff corrected a square‑footage discrepancy in the agenda and staff report (which listed 669 square feet) after comparing the site plan; staff confirmed the site plan shows 699 square feet and the motions were made to reflect that figure. Cronin also clarified utilities: the building is on public water and uses an on‑site wastewater treatment system (OWTS/septic); he asked that no sewer connection be required unless rules or failure of the OWTS make connection necessary.
No members of the public spoke at the hearing. After discussion of the unified development review standard for use variances and staff conditions, the commission voted to approve the use variance to permit automotive repair in the General Business zone and separately approved the preliminary minor land development for the 699‑square‑foot addition. A commission member announced a recusal citing proximity to the site prior to the project vote.
The motions incorporated the staff report (with the corrected square footage), included suggested parking‑block treatments identified by the technical review committee, and left final plan review to administrative processing unless the commission directs otherwise. Staff advised the applicant already holds relevant state permits and expects to submit final plans to the planning office soon.
The commission did not record a roll‑call tally in the minutes beyond voice approval. No new curb cuts or utility connections were required by the approved scope; staff will administer remaining technical details.
