Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Board Roundup topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board grants several variances and approvals, including 20 Coffins and Blush relocation
Summary
Portsmouth's Board of Adjustment approved minor and technical variances for multiple applications: 20 Coffins Court (dormers/rear-yard relief), 9 Willard Avenue (garage relocation), and Blush LLC's move to 404 The Hill (appointment-only personal services), among others; most passed with unanimous or strong majorities.
At its Feb. 18 meeting the Portsmouth Board of Adjustment approved several less‑controversial or more technical items.
- 20 Coffins Court: The board approved building coverage and rear‑yard setback relief needed to add dormers and a spiral staircase on a 145‑year‑old house. The project preserves the existing footprint and uses permeable pavers to address stormwater; the motion passed by a unanimous vote.
- 9 Willard Avenue: Owner Alex Hussein received variances to demolish a detached shed and build a two‑car garage with an upper room, moving the garage forward to create a safer backyard for children. The board found the new design reduced rear‑line encroachment versus existing conditions and approved the request (vote 5–2).
- 404 The Hill (Blush LLC): The board approved relocation of an appointment‑only personal services business (Blush) into 404 The Hill and accepted a stipulation that the operation remain strictly by appointment; the motion passed 6–1.
Each approval is subject to the usual building‑permit and technical reviews by city staff. For items that increase development activity, the board noted that DPW and building inspection will verify drainage, sewer and code compliance during permitting.
