Commission approves rear-slope replacement at 7 Westland Street and continues front-slope decision to June 25

The Worcester Historic Commission voted to waive the 12-month demolition delay for the rear slope of the roof at 7 Westland Street and to allow replacement with standard architectural shingles. The commission continued consideration of the front slope to the next meeting on June 25 and extended the constructive grant deadline to July 10, 2026, while directing the owner to return with specific estimates and salvage/repair options.

Homeowner Al Hargrave described a slate roof with widespread tile failure, leaking into interior spaces and creating safety concerns; he said repair appeared infeasible and that multiple tiles had fallen into his yard. Commissioners discussed slate, synthetic-slate products, and 'slate-line' architectural shingles as possible compromise materials and sought options to preserve the street-facing appearance, including salvaging usable slate from the rear to reuse on the front. The commission asked for two estimates for the front: a synthetic-slate front with asphalt back and a salvage/repair plan using existing materials and an asphalt or slate-line back.

On a roll call the commission approved the rear-slope replacement with standard architectural shingles and then voted unanimously to continue the front-slope matter to the June 25 meeting so more documentation and comparative quotes could be submitted.