Newbury Planning Board Advances Road Safety Measures Amid Community Concerns

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board meeting held on April 15, 2026, addressed topics, including road safety improvements, a subdivision application for a property on Central Street, and updates on a solar project. The board received federal and match funding for intersection improvements, sparking discussions on road safety and community impact.

Newbury Planning Board Evaluates Stormwater Solutions and Traffic Safety Amid Development Concerns

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board meeting on April 1, 2026, focused heavily on the proposed development on Central Street, where stormwater management and traffic safety were the central topics of discussion. The board reviewed a revised design for a rain garden intended to manage stormwater from a 9-inch rain event over 24 hours and considered various traffic safety improvements at the intersection of Central and Church Streets. Additionally, concerns were raised about fire safety measures for a separate development at Orchard Street, particularly regarding the reliance on sprinkler systems and the adequacy of water supply infrastructure.

Newbury Planning Board Supports Zoning Board Expansion for Improved Decision-Making

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board held a virtual meeting to discuss several significant proposals, chief among them a zoning amendment aimed at expanding the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) from three to five members. The board unanimously endorsed the amendment, which is intended to enhance the decision-making process by incorporating a broader range of perspectives and reducing potential delays due to member absences.

Newbury Planning Board Advances Inclusionary Zoning to Boost Affordable Housing

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board meeting focused on several significant proposals aimed at enhancing local zoning regulations, most notably the introduction of inclusionary zoning to increase affordable housing. This initiative, aligned with the town’s housing production plan, seeks to diversify housing options and address the needs of various income groups within Newbury. Other topics included updates to zoning bylaws, especially concerning clean energy facilities and battery energy storage systems, as well as a detailed review of a site plan for a new pavilion at 2-8 Old Point Road.

Newbury Planning Board Faces Public Concerns Over Proposed Duplex Development on Central Street

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board meeting on February 18, 2026, primarily focused on a proposed duplex development on Central Street, which prompted public feedback and discussion regarding traffic, environmental impact, and community safety. Residents voiced concerns about the project’s potential effects on the neighborhood, resulting in the board scheduling a site walk and continuing the public hearing to allow for further community input.