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Consultants outline sweeping zoning-code rewrite, propose consolidated districts and smaller minimum lot sizes
Summary
Consultants from Van Wall Associates presented a draft zoning-code rewrite for New London that would consolidate existing residential districts into a simpler set of single-family and mixed-residential categories, create new institutional and parks districts, and lower some bulk standards (including proposed R-1 minimum lot size from 7,200 to 5,000 square feet). Commissioners flagged several 'hot topics' for additional discussion.
New London — Planning consultants presented a draft overhaul of the city’s zoning code that would rename and consolidate existing districts, introduce new district types to reflect institutional and parks uses, and adjust lot- and bulk-dimension standards intended to better match existing development patterns and unlock state housing funding.
Ben of Van Wall Associates walked the commission through the proposed translation of current districts into a new scheme: single-family residential, mixed-residential low/medium/high density, mobile home, three tiers of commercial/mixed-use (downtown/corridor/neighborhood), an institutional district for schools and churches, three industrial tiers (light/medium/heavy), and separate ag, conservancy and parks-and-recreation districts.
Ben said the consultants proposed lowering the minimum lot area in what is now the R-1 district from 7,200 square feet to 5,000 square feet for the draft code. "What we're proposing is lowering that to 5,000 square feet," Ben said, explaining the change reflects existing lot patterns and is intended to support 'missing middle' housing opportunities.
The presentation also responds to state law changes (Act 67) that limit some conditional-use controls; consultants proposed creating discrete zoning districts (rather than relying on conditional-use permits) for certain intensive or adult-oriented uses so the city can set clearer standards. Ben said the draft land-use tables mark permitted-by-right uses with 'P' and retain 'C' for conditional uses in limited contexts, and that the commission will still see further refinements to the draft map and text.
Commissioners asked for follow-up on several policy choices — including how the code would treat faith-based institutions, whether personal storage facilities should remain allowed in commercial areas, garage setback standards to discourage 'snout houses,' and whether height limits should be increased in some districts. Ben and staff recommended focusing on a short list of 'hot topics' for deeper discussion at a future meeting.
The commission did not take final action on the zoning code text; Ben suggested returning next month (or to a stand-alone session) to dig into the identified policy issues. The commission tentatively scheduled its next meeting for Aug. 22.
