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Owner outlines plan to host rugby field and outdoor events at Whittemore Homestead
Summary
A Whittemore family member told the Select Board they want to use parts of the Whittemore Homestead property for a dedicated rugby field and as an outdoor event venue to help fund maintenance of the historic property. Planning, TRC and zoning reviews were identified as next steps.
Jan Whitemare presented conceptual plans for the Whittemore Homestead, a family‑owned historic property, seeking guidance from the Select Board on whether the town would welcome two uses: leasing roughly two acres for a permanent rugby field and operating the grounds as a shell event venue for outdoor weddings and gatherings.
Whitemare said the rugby club would pay for field improvements and would use the site for practices and a limited number of weekend games; she described parking plans, an entrance/exit to Bow Lane to improve traffic flow, and an intent to avoid using the historic house or barn for rentals. She noted potential evening practices and the likelihood of lighting, and acknowledged the need for detailed technical reviews: TRC (technical review committee) checks, state permits for any stream crossings, zoning and planning approvals, and neighbor notification. Public safety representatives (police, EMS) have been consulted informally; staff suggested more formal TRC review and possible condition‑setting if the board wishes to proceed.
Board members generally welcomed the concept but stressed that: the use may require special exceptions and permits; parking, lighting, and traffic impacts must be assessed; abutters must be notified; and any permanent structures or expanded nightly use would trigger additional zoning review. Whitemare said the project would be phased and focused first on modest, revenue‑producing uses that can help sustain the property without adding residential development.
Why it matters: The proposal explores a revenue model that could preserve a historic property while introducing new recreational and event uses; it raises land‑use and infrastructure considerations that fall under planning and zoning review.
What’s next: Whitemare will continue TRC engagement and work with planning staff. The board advised following formal permit pathways and returning with more detailed site plans and traffic/parking analyses.
