Conversion of Horse Farm to House Lots Faces Questions

A plan to convert Canter Brook Equestrian Center into a six-lot neighborhood got its first look Wednesday night, where issues were raised about whether one of the new lots would have legal access and whether conditions about water runoff would apply to the new home lots, among others.

A “chicken and egg” question also arose, with the Zoning Board of Appeals – who was hearing about the plan on Wednesday night – should consider the plan first or whether it was better suited to first go before the Planning Board, which took a look at it on Tuesday but did not offer an opinion.

The Board of Appeals is being asked to removed a condition on the Highland Street equestrian center imposed in 1986 limiting any further subdivision of the property as long as it remains in commercial operation.

No final decision was made and Chairman Bill Bowler said the board will continue to review the proposal when it meets next on Sept. 11.

There are several questions Bowler seeks to answer, including whether what Dawson said is an apartment in the arena constitutes a residence that would be a primary use on one of the lots, making the barn and horses an accessory use – even if it draws the primary use in size.

The property was the subject to years of review for a proposed senior housing project that was never permitted and did not come to fruition.