Planning Board approves conversion of 297 Route 28 to four one‑bedroom condominium units with conditions

The Harwich Planning Board unanimously approved June 23 a multifamily special permit and site‑plan review allowing a conversion of 297 Route 28 into four one‑bedroom condominium units, subject to multiple conditions addressing stormwater, deliveries, parking and prohibition on short‑term rentals.

Agent David Rquina told the board the existing 40‑by‑70 building will retain its footprint and be converted into four one‑bedroom units; he said the applicant has provided a master deed and condominium trust documents and has worked with engineers on stormwater mitigation. "We do believe that we've provided everything that we've been asked and we're hoping that the board finds in our favor tonight," Rquina said.

Miss Flynn, staff, said the applicant agreed to route roof runoff into the existing infiltration system, will not allow short‑term rentals, and has submitted condominium documents to the Barnstable County Registry of Deeds. Staff recommended approval with conditions; the board adopted findings of fact and unanimously approved the permits. Conditions included installing gutters to mitigate runoff, maintaining the stormwater system with ongoing reporting to the town, restrictions on deliveries and trash pickup (no pickup before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m.), prohibition of restaurant delivery trucks using the multifamily driveway, and submission of as‑built plans and certifications prior to certificate of occupancy.

The decision contains standard lapse and filing provisions: the permit does not take effect until post‑filing appeal periods have expired and will lapse within two years if construction or substantial use does not commence, subject to statutory exceptions.