ZBA approves demolition and rebuild at 225 Beach Street; increased ridge height conditionally allowed

Chad Hill of Capen Islands Design presented plans to demolish the existing structure at 225 Beach Street and build a new three‑bedroom home on the same footprint. Hill said the primary change is an increased ridge height (from 17'8" to a proposed 24'2"), and noted historic‑district review had approved the design.

Staff confirmed the plan dated 07/05/2026 should be used for conditions and added standard requirements that the existing driveway remain the only access and that perimeter trees or hedges not be removed if they lie in the public right‑of‑way. After board members verified the correct plan date and reviewed elevations, the board found the reconstruction, as conditioned, would not be substantially more detrimental to the neighborhood and voted to issue the special permit with conditions 1–11.