Conservation commission approves demolition of deteriorated utility building at 10 Newell Street with debris controls

The Nantucket Conservation Commission on Dec. 18 approved an order of conditions that allows Nantucket Electric Company to demolish an existing building at 10 Newell Street after finding the structure has reached the end of its useful life. Melissa Kaplan of BSC Group told the commission the building "is in disrepair and poses a hazard and safety risk," and that demolition would be done in place on the existing concrete foundation with no ground disturbance proposed.

The commission attached conditions requiring the contractor to follow best management practices for dust and debris control and to designate an on‑site employee to monitor debris, secure demolition materials, and ensure proper off‑site disposal. Kaplan said building materials will be containerized and removed off island and that standard sediment and erosion controls would be available if needed. "The dust control measures are part of the best management practice manual," Kaplan said.

Members pressed staff and applicants about debris monitoring and whether materials would be secured on site temporarily. The commission clarified condition language to ensure materials are not left unsecured and adopted an explicit requirement that an employee be designated to monitor and secure demolition‑related materials. The order also includes standard conditions prohibiting fertilizer and non‑native plantings in commission jurisdiction where relevant.

The motion to approve and issue the order carried unanimously among commissioners present. The commission said it will follow up through required monitoring and site visits to verify compliance with the dust, debris and monitoring conditions.