Development News for North Andover, Massachusetts

North Andover Explores 40y Starter Home Zoning to Increase Attainable Housing

The Town of North Andover is exploring the adoption of a '40y starter home district' zoning overlay, a strategy from its housing production plan. This initiative aims to increase the supply of smaller, more attainable housing types for young families and downsizing seniors. The Marramac Valley Planning Commission (MVPC) presented details on the statute and regulations, highlighting that starter homes would not exceed 1,800 square feet, must allow ADUs, and include an affordability component (10% of units restricted at or below 110% AMI). The MVPC noted that current market-based construction in North Andover averages 3,800 square feet and sells for $1.26 million, compared to R6 zoned homes averaging 1,800 square feet and selling for $676,000. The 40y zoning aims to incentivize denser, smaller footprint homes, potentially lowering monthly mortgage costs significantly.

Public Hearing Opened for North Andover Country Club Watershed Permit, Continued to July

The North Andover Planning Board opened a public hearing for the North Andover Country Club's application for a watershed protection district special permit. The permit would authorize tree removal within high water limits of Lake Kachikawick and parking lot reclamation within non-disturbment and non-discharge zones of the watershed protection district. The board voted to continue the hearing to the July 7th meeting due to outstanding application items and upcoming changes in board membership, ensuring sufficient quorum for future votes.

North Andover Approves Watershed Special Permit for Bridal Path Residence with ADU

The North Andover Planning Board voted to approve a watershed special permit for 200 Bridal Path for additions to an existing single-family dwelling, including an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), minor driveway expansion, and site improvements. The project is located within the non-disturbment zone of the watershed protection district. The permit includes conditions such as the installation of an infiltration drywell, required test pits before work, and compliance with the Conservation Commission's permit. Fertilizers used must be organic or slow-release nitrogen and phosphorus to limit algae growth in the nearby lake.