Plans for 1.5M-sq.-ft. north-central CT warehouse meet major defeat
A rendering of the planned Willington distribution center
The Willington Planning and Zoning Commission recently rejected a zoning change needed for a planned 1.5 million-square-foot warehouse off Interstate 84.
Commission members unanimously turned back a proposal to change the zoning of 159.7 acres along River Road and Interstate 84 from residential to a “special development zone.” In its decision, the commission declared the widely unpopular warehouse plan contrary to the town’s plan of conservation and development.
The concept was forwarded this spring by NHG Acquisitions LLC, an entity whose principal is New Haven Group founder Steven K. Inglese. The New Haven-based investor and developer had partnered with Dallas-based Hillwood, an international development group headed by Ross Perot Jr.
The plan called for a 1.5 million-square-foot warehouse with 228 loading bays, 500 or more employee parking spaces and more than 700 trailer storage spaces on what is now undeveloped. The proposed development site borders Interstate 84 and River Road, and would be accessed from the latter.
Dozens of residents railed against the proposals in letters to the commission and at public meetings. Much of that concern centered around fears of changing the quiet character of the town and impacting quality of life.
A financial impact analysis by Goman + York estimated new municipal tax revenue of up to $2.7 million annually, net of costs associated with the new development, as well as one-time development fees of up to $848,000.
Attempts to reach a representative of NHG and its local attorney were not immediately successful Friday.
In a statement, Thomas Cody, a lawyer representing the development group, said “While the development team is disappointed with the outcome, we appreciate the planning and zoning’s time and review of our application, as well as the engagement and feedback we received from town residents.”
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments