Development News for Londonderry, New Hampshire

Planning Board Continues Decision on Village on Technology Hills Occupancy, Orders Independent Testing for Rockingham Road Site

The board discussed a request for modification of a condition of approval for the Village on Technology Hills PUD, specifically regarding off-site roadway improvements prior to the issuance of the first residential building certificate of occupancy. The applicant requested relief to obtain occupancy for two buildings before completing these improvements. The board deliberated on the timeline for these improvements, potential delays due to utility relocation (Eversource), and the impact of increased traffic. Concerns were raised about making another mistake that could worsen traffic. The applicant's contractor is prepared to start immediately upon approval, and the off-site improvements are expected to be completed within the current construction season. Public comment from Ken Sinsky alleviated some concerns regarding past traffic impacts from L3 Harris. Ultimately, the board voted to grant the modification, allowing occupancy for residential buildings one and nine prior to the completion of off-site improvements, subject to further conditions regarding completion before any additional building occupancies. The board also discussed upcoming ribbon cuttings and thanked the attendees. The application for 60 residential units with wetland buffer impact at 196-198 Rockingham Road was accepted as complete, with a waiver for a checklist item that will become a condition of approval. The project involves consolidating two lots, constructing three buildings with 20 units each, and includes environmental cleanup by the current owner. Concerns were extensively discussed regarding soil and groundwater contamination, the extent of remediation, and the timeline for site closure. The board continued the hearing to August 5th to allow for independent third-party testing of the site and the merged lot, with the applicant to cover the costs. The discussion also touched upon the potential impact of residential use in a C2 zone and the adequacy of the existing environmental data.