ZBA approves landward house retreat and strict protocol for geocube removal at 393 Cranberry Hole Road

The Zoning Board of Appeals on May 19 authorized a landward relocation of the residence at 393 Cranberry Hole Road and attached conditions for staged geocube removal and dune restoration after hearing technical presentations on removal methods and public‑safety concerns.

Applicant Nigel Curtis said he wanted prompt removal of the geocube structures because he was "aware that the bags are deteriorating" and wanted a path forward for retreat and dune restoration rather than leaving the cubes in place indefinitely. Technical consultant Billy Mack (First Coastal) and engineering testimony outlined a removal method: open geocubes in place, release contained sand onto the adjacent dune above mean high water, incorporate the sand into a graded angle of repose, and haul geotextile fabric and associated debris to covered upland disposal containers for off‑site disposal. The board emphasized that no geoexile or debris would be left on the beach and required daily debris removal protocols.

The board set multiple conditions: detailed engineered drainage calculations and revised plans subject to the town engineering consultant’s approval before any building permits; a requirement that all released sand remain above mean high water and be stabilized and revegetated; limits on equipment access; and a mandate that the contractor report any site changes immediately to the board. The board also adopted a negative SEQRA declaration for the unlisted action and recorded motions approving the retreat concept and the geocube removal protocol subject to final engineering and implementation monitoring.

What happens next: The applicant must submit final drainage calculations, construction details and a geocube removal and revegetation protocol for review and approval by the board’s engineering consultant. The town will require advance notice and inspections during the removal period.