Board approves conversion of Glenbrook commercial space to four residential units, citing housing and parking rationale

Radnor’s Zoning Hearing Board approved a request to convert the first floor of a Glenbrook Avenue property to two residential units, expanding an existing nonconforming residential use by less than 50% and granting related parking relief.

Applicant Erdem (who said he goes by "Sully") described purchasing the building in poor condition and stabilizing structural issues; he proposed four two‑bedroom, one‑bath units (each roughly 1,000 square feet) to serve hospital workers and commuters, and estimated market rents near $2,000 per unit. The applicant said no exterior addition is proposed — the work is interior renovations and build‑outs.

A realtor for the applicant presented comparables showing small commercial spaces in the area had lengthy days‑on‑market and multiple expired listings, arguing the first‑floor commercial market for 1,000‑sq‑ft spaces is weak and the conversion would reduce the parking nonconformity (residential demand is lower than the previous commercial requirement). Board members noted nearby examples of similar conversions and the township’s interest in encouraging housing near transit and employment centers.

Board members made and approved a motion granting the requested special exception and variances, including relief for off‑street parking. The board found the change reduces the nonconformity, introduces additional housing near Bryn Mawr Hospital and nearby public transit, and is consistent with the township’s housing goals.

The approval is subject to standard permitting and building‑code review.