Board clears setback for Belmont Street addition, paving way for Haitian restaurant

The Brockton Zoning Board of Appeals granted a setback variance enabling a roughly 300‑square‑foot addition on the right side of 261 Belmont Street to support a restaurant and a small retail/bakery counter.

A representative for Fenton Bridal and D21 Architects told the board the building is a mixed-use property with residential floors above and a fully sprinkled ground floor, and the proposed addition will "square off" the existing footprint while aligning with existing setbacks. "It's gonna be a Haitian restaurant, provide support for the community," the representative said.

Members noted a similar variance was granted in March 2020 but the prior approval lapsed when the earlier owner did not proceed. The building inspector reminded the board the current proposal involves reestablishing a nonconforming use and pointed to the appropriate zoning subsection for restoring nonconforming uses; the applicant confirmed they obtained required electrical and fire approvals and will meet dumpster and enclosure rules.

After limited discussion about parking, loading and the location of the dumpster, the board voted to grant the requested relief. The board recorded a unanimous vote in favor and closed the matter.