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Board approves demolition and six‑story replacement for 43 Fletcher Street after architects say building is structurally unsafe
Summary
Architects told the Lowell Historic Board that the former Ashworth/Fury's Tavern at 43 Fletcher Street is structurally unsafe and recommended demolition; the board approved a six‑story mixed‑use replacement with conditions on design and materials.
The Lowell Historic Board on March 9 approved the demolition of the derelict structure at 43 Fletcher Street and granted design approval for a six‑story mixed‑use replacement after hearing architects’ testimony that the existing building is unsafe and impractical to rehabilitate.
Barry Ganek of Ganek Architects, who introduced the project on behalf of the developer, said the project team submitted a structural engineer’s report concluding the small wood‑frame building has "significant structural deterioration, unsafe conditions" and that restoration would be impractical and costly. "We respectfully ask for your approval for the demolition and the approval of this project," Ganek told the board.
Ganek and colleague Carl Vixenens described the proposed building as ground‑floor commercial with five floors of market‑rate apartments above, using a podium construction (steel and concrete base with wood framing above), dark brick and fiber‑cement panels with a rain‑screen system to meet energy codes. The team said the design seeks to reflect the scale and rhythm of nearby historic mill buildings while meeting modern durability and code requirements.
Board members asked about entrances, possible canopy or signage, and the potential to incorporate historic photos or artifacts in a lobby display. Staff and the applicant discussed the city‑owned parcel adjacent to the site as a possible location for additional parking or landscaped public space.
Board members commended the applicant’s responsiveness to prior feedback and said the proposal fit the site scale. After discussion of four staff conditions (material samples, window/door scopes, roof specifications, and measures to protect canal‑walk elements and monitor vibration), a motion to issue the permit for demolition and construction was made and seconded and the board voted to approve the project.
Next steps: the applicant will proceed with demolition and construction permitting subject to the listed conditions and coordination with city departments; staff will continue to advise on historic‑context details and possible incorporation of local historic images in the public spaces.
