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Commission approves ADU at 312 South 6th but requires replacement of mature Laurel Oak
Summary
The commission approved a 1,007‑sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit at 312 South 6th Street but added a condition that the mature Laurel Oak to be removed must be replaced with a tree from the city's approved list; the vote was recorded 5–1.
The Wilmington Historic Preservation Commission approved an application on Oct. 9 to construct a 1,007‑square‑foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at 312 South 6th Street, with a condition requiring replacement of a mature Laurel Oak tree proposed for removal.
Staff presented the ADU as new construction on a newly subdivided lot; the project includes fiber‑cement siding, composite windows and a small porch. Commissioners pressed the applicant on tree replacement and on design details to ensure the new structure would be visually congruent with the block.
Brandon Bowden, representing the property owners, said the team "have proposed to replace the tree, from the approved list," and that the existing Laurel Oak is near the end of its expected life. Commissioners sought assurances that replacement would be substantial and not limited to a sapling. Legal counsel and staff said the city's code requires replacement from an approved list and includes a growth‑cycle requirement to ensure the replacement thrives.
The commission added to Condition 3 that the tree to be removed must be replaced; the motion to approve carried with a recorded vote of 5–1.
The approval is subject to the applicant completing the minor‑subdivision/TRC process and obtaining all required permits before construction.
