Webster Groves panel approves multiple demolition permits, neighbors urge design sensitivity

The Webster Groves Historic Preservation Commission on Dec. 9 approved demolition permits for multiple properties deemed structurally deteriorated, while neighbors and commissioners urged developers to design replacement homes that fit each neighborhood.

Commission Chair Angela Thompson opened the meeting and walked members through staff reports saying historical research turned up little that would prevent demolition. For 856 Marshall commissioners noted the building's condition and approved the demolition after a motion by a commissioner; the commission recorded yesses and no opposition.

Neighbors spoke most extensively about 700 Sherwood, where several residents said they do not oppose demolition but want any replacement to preserve Sherwood Street's character. "We and many of the other neighbors on Sherwood simply want to make sure that the new developments in that space . . . maintain the character of that neighborhood and of Sherwood Street in particular, which is a historic street," said Adam McGobble, who identified himself as living at 646 Sherwood.

Chair Thompson acknowledged limits on the commission's authority outside designated historic districts. "Unfortunately, there's only so much control that the city has, and there's only — we don't have any control over that, what's built," she said, while noting the Architectural Review Board and planning processes can shape some elements.

Staff and a commission member described 700 Sherwood's site conditions and the challenge of rehabilitating some older houses. One member noted that lifting a severely damaged house and replacing the foundation could cost "about $200,000" and still leave a rehab financially infeasible.

The commission also approved the demolition requests for 637 West Glendale and for two neighboring lots on Oaktree Drive after the applicant joined by phone and said designs had been reviewed by the Architectural Review Board. Commissioners asked that applicants consider façade materials, window proportions and garage placement so new houses better match nearby properties.

All demolition approvals were accompanied by brief discussion of local preservation tools. Planning staff reminded neighbors that conservation districts are listed as a strategy in the city's comprehensive plan and could offer neighborhoods more say over architectural materials and massing if residents pursue that process.

The meeting closed with no further public objections to the demolition permits. Several commissioners encouraged neighbors to submit written comments to the planning office and to the developer or architect during the Architectural Review Board and permitting process.

Next steps: approved demolition permits allow applicants to proceed with demolition and subsequent permitting; design review questions will be handled through the Architectural Review Board and planning staff as required.