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Neighbors oppose Marion Street porch and ramp; zoning board approves accessibility variances
Summary
Longtime neighbor opposition met the Aldrichs' request for a front porch and ramp to improve home accessibility. The board approved variances, citing accessibility and unique lot conditions but debated neighborhood character and prior nonconformity.
At the November hearing the Concord Zoning Board approved two variances allowing a front porch with ramp for Suzanne and Robert Aldrich at 14 Marion Street, despite vocal neighborhood opposition.
The applicants said the 32‑ft‑by‑6‑ft porch and ramp would provide necessary year‑round access for a household member with disabilities and that the porch would be modest in depth. "It's going to be easier access for him," the applicant said, describing mobility challenges and family needs. Staff reminded the board that RSA 674:33 includes a clause addressing accessibility ramps that can reduce the usual hardship burden for such relief; board members discussed whether to apply that provision or to grant the variance under the ordinary criteria and chose to record findings under the primary variance standard.
Neighbor John Wilson, who said he has lived on Marion Street for decades, argued the house was already nonconforming and that extending a porch along the full façade would worsen the nonconformity and harm neighborhood character and property values. "The proposed front porch will extend a nonconforming structure closer to the road and reduce neighborhood property values," he said. The applicant rebutted that the new porch will replace a picture window with a proper front door and will occupy the area of existing landscaping rocks; she said no trees will be removed and that the porch provides crucial accessibility.
Board members weighed accessibility needs against nonconformity and streetscape concerns. Several members said a front porch and clear front entrance add value and civic desirability, while noting the unusual lot geometry and existing ramping history. The board moved to grant the requested front and side setbacks (front to 5 ft, side to 10 ft as recorded) and adopted the applicant's proposed findings as the board's findings of fact. The decision included instructions to pursue standard permitting and to consider ADA/ramp standards during permit review.
Next steps: The Aldrichs must apply for building permits and comply with applicable ramp and ADA standards; the board noted it could condition approvals regarding the ramp if it chose to make the allowance conditional on continued need.
