Planning board approves Shoreland reconstruction at 8 Yates Street

The Biddeford Planning Board on Aug. 5 unanimously approved a Shoreland zoning permit (case 2026.26) allowing the reconstruction of an existing nonconforming residence at 8 Yates Street in the Coastal Residential zone. Michael Skolnick, a permitting attorney with Archipelago representing owner Ashley LeBlanc, told the board the proposal "is meant to bring the property into conformance to the greatest extent practical" while keeping the rear portion of the structure that is grandfathered in place.

Board members pressed the applicant on height and construction method; Skolnick said the reconstructed building will not exceed the current height limits and that the project will be modular to address tight site constraints. The approval includes standard conditions: the raised building must not be relocated closer to property lines, code enforcement review prior to building permit issuance for conformance with the Shoreland zoning ordinance, and a one-year expiration if framing/foundation work (roughly 30% completion) is not started. The motion to approve was moved, seconded and carried by unanimous voice vote.