Newbury Planning Board Approves Common Driveway, Discusses Land Withdrawal

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board, in their recent meeting, unanimously approved a special permit application for a common driveway and engaged in discussions surrounding the withdrawal from chapter 61a for a property on Central Street. In a session that saw the introduction of the new Planning Director Kristen Grubbs, members also deliberated on a request by the Newbury Golf Center and the reorganization of the board’s leadership roles.

Newbury Planning Board Faces Key Project Delays and Departures

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board meeting addressed significant project extensions and expressed farewells to two pivotal figures — the Planning Director and a long-standing board member. The discussions revolved around extension requests for two major projects on Main Street and the Newburyport Turnpike, as well as the departure of the Planning Director and the recognition of a board member’s contributions.

Newbury Planning Board Adopts Stormwater Management Amendments

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board convened remotely, adopting crucial amendments to the site plan and subdivision regulations related to stormwater management, in compliance with the MS4 permit. Additionally, discussions on a common driveway special permit application, a planting plan for a development project, and a substantial increase in withheld funds for landscaping and retaining wall were central topics.

Newbury Planning Board Debates Bond Requirements for Subdivision

Overview: The Newbury Planning Board recently held a meeting to discuss several issues concerning local development projects, with the most focus on the performance covenant and bond requirements for the Farm View Lane subdivision. During the meeting, the board deliberated on whether to accept a cash deposit in lieu of a previously requested $30,000 bond for the completion of outstanding work in the subdivision. The discussion centered on the appropriate amount of security to be held, as well as the consideration of outstanding issues, such as a ponding issue in one of the driveways. The board ultimately decided to adhere to the original bond requirement, voting to approve a $30,000 bond as security in lieu of the performance covenant.

Newbury Planning Board Sets Public Hearing for Land Use Revisions

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Newbury Planning Board focused on a series of issues, most notably setting a public hearing date for proposed revisions to chapter 117, which pertains to subdivision of land and site plan review submission requirements and procedures. The revisions are aimed at ensuring compliance with the town’s MS4 general permit by amending regulations and bylaws to include considerations of water quality impacts and low impact development strategies during preapplication conferences. Additionally, the board discussed the incorporation of a public comment segment into the Planning Board agenda, reported on various liaison updates, and addressed property applications and stormwater issues.