Planning board finds Rocky Ledge Terrace subdivision change a minor modification

The Winchester Planning Board voted to classify an application by Rocky Ledge Terrace LLC to modify an approved definitive subdivision as a minor modification, setting conditions tied to the staff report rather than requiring a full re-review.

Board members said the change — eliminating one proposed lot and replacing a cul-de-sac with a hammerhead turnaround — appears to reduce disturbance to the site. "I think they're creating a bit more green space and impervious area, which should help with that question," said Carrie, a board member. Chair Jack also noted the fire department has signed off on the hammerhead layout.

Applicant Mister DeVito, who identified himself as the property owner, described delays that stalled the project and provided numbers on the revised design. "We do expect to cut the paved turnaround by roughly 75% — so it's almost 14,500 square feet to roughly 3,000 square feet of actual paved area," he said, adding that the building commissioner and fire department were comfortable with the hammerhead concept.

Board members discussed technical issues they wanted the applicant and staff to ensure were covered, including drainage and sewer abandonment details, turning radius and winter maintenance for a private hammerhead turnaround, and ensuring any required environmental or community-impact analyses are updated if necessary. Taylor, the planning staff member, confirmed the board would require the revised plans, calculations and supporting documents described in the staff report before final approval.

A motion that the adjustments be considered a minor modification, "with the expectation that the requirements outlined in the staff report be fulfilled," carried on a voice vote with one member recorded as abstaining. The board’s decision determines the review procedure only; the applicant must still submit the final revised materials for staff review and board consideration.