Norwood Appeals Board Denies Permit For South Norwood Development-July 27, 1974

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The Norwood Appeals Board considered multiple matters concerning local development and public safety. The proposed development, spearheaded by Hobbs Realty Trust, aimed to construct three-bedroom duplex buildings in a cluster-type setting, covering approximately nine acres of land. However, the appeals board members raised several concerns regarding the project’s feasibility. Board member George S. Williamson pointed out that the plan did not provide adequate space for emergency vehicles to access the rear of the buildings, which is a requirement under the town’s special permit regulations.

Furthermore, Chairman George M. Eysie emphasized that the construction of the new South Junior High School would exacerbate water runoff problems in the area. The school site, built on higher land, would drain off into the same area as the proposed development, causing additional flooding hazards. This issue was not a new concern, as it had been acknowledged since the bylaws were written in the 1960s.

The board members also took into account a state Department of Public Works report on water levels in the proposed site area. The report revealed an acute possibility of flooding after a severe storm, which would pose significant risks to residents and emergency responders. According to the report, the elevation of Hawes Brook and water problems presently existing in a problem area created severe risks.

Board member Joseph J. Randall said he was ninety-eight percent sure that if there was enough rainfall, the entire area would be flooded. It was also pointed out that the low elevation areas could become ponds created by excess ground water, which would result in a hazard to small children. Chairman George M. Eysie added that the board will also view drawings of the area that are included in the state report as soon as they are received.

In other action, the board took under advisement a request by Kayser-Roth Corp. for a permit to allow a retail shoe store in a manufacturing zone. A. Sandler Co. has recently moved its headquarters from the Needham Industrial Park to one of the former Plimpton Press buildings on Lenox Street at Plimpton Avenue. Lee Karp, vice president of Sandler, said the company has already occupied new executive offices and warehouse space in the building.

The retail store, which would occupy a small area in the building, would employ two persons and would require only six parking spaces. The office space will employ about sixty persons, and the warehouse about twenty. Lee Karp added that he would be agreeable to maintaining similar operating hours as those in the operating room.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger