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Zoning board approves two accessory-structure variances; Greenbank Farm decision reserved
Summary
The Marple Township Zoning Hearing Board approved two accessory-structure variances — a shed at 221 Harvest Lane and a detached garage at 26 North Manor Road — by unanimous voice votes (5-0). The board took no vote on the contested Greenbank Farm PRD interpretation and will issue a decision within 45 days.
Marple Township — The Zoning Hearing Board voted to approve two accessory-structure variances Tuesday and reserved a decision on a larger PRD matter.
Case 2026-01: Matt Galbraith — shed (221 Harvest Lane) The board approved a variance to allow a 10-by-12-foot shed to encroach 4 feet into the accessory-structure setbacks, resulting in 3-foot setbacks where 7 feet is required. The motion to approve was offered by Committee member Patty and seconded by Committee member Jules; the board approved the motion by voice vote, Ayes carry 5-0.
Case 2026-02: James Contando & Margaret Ward — detached garage (26 North Manor Road) The board approved a variance for a proposed 30-by-17-foot detached garage that would leave 4.5 feet to the property line and 4.5 feet between the accessory structure and the principal structure where the code requires 6 feet and 10 feet respectively. Committee member AJ moved the approval; the motion was seconded and the board approved it by voice vote, Ayes carry 5-0. The board noted that if the structure’s height or other dimensions change beyond the permitted allowances, the applicant must seek additional relief.
Case 2026-03: Greenbank Farm PRD interpretation For the trustees’ request to interpret whether a separate 4-acre parcel may count toward PRD open space and to grant a dimensional variance for a 49.197-acre tract, the board took no vote and said it would mull the testimony and issue a written decision within the 45-day window.
What the votes mean: The two accessory-structure approvals allow the applicants to proceed with their permits subject to any additional departmental requirements; the more significant Greenbank Farm question remains pending and could require additional hearings before commissioners or further land-development reviews.
