Equestrian Village Development Faces Scrutiny and Calls for Accountability at Community Forum

In Peterborough, tension brews over a proposed Equestrian Village along Burke Road, sparking heated debates among locals. Spearheaded by Miami-based Star Mountain Properties, this initiative intensifies the clash between progress and conservation. It pits the community’s desire for growth against the preservation of the area’s natural landscape.

A recent meeting organized by the Peterborough Planning Board had approximately 30 attendees, including residents and board officials. They gathered to discuss significant design changes proposed for the ambitious initiative. These alterations raise questions about their impact on the town’s landscape. Simultaneously, they aim to address concerns about sustainable growth and environmental conservation.

Revisions to the equestrian village blueprint set in stone and underway

Following public feedback and insights gleaned from a previous Planning Board session, the blueprint for the Equestrian Village underwent significant modifications. Representing the developer, Chad Branon of Fieldstone Land Consultants highlighted that despite the project being in its design phase, alterations were made in direct response to community concerns. The updated plans now showcase a revamped roadway layout that adheres to the property’s natural topography, ensuring road grades stay between 3% and 5%. Importantly, professional-scale equestrian barns have been reclassified as part of the primary residential parcel, excluding them from the designated open space.

Additionally, following the criteria for open-space residential development, the updated design focuses on preserving 104 acres of land. It divides 85 acres among individual house lots and reserves 20 acres for easements. These changes aim to comply with state regulations designating equestrian land as “agricultural” under open space classification. They also align with Peterborough’s zoning rules.

Ongoing concerns and discussions surrounding the development scale

However, despite these changes, concerns linger about the scale and nature of the development. The Planning Board members voiced unease about the perceived sprawl caused by the proposed 3/4-acre lots for each home. Chad Branon defended the design, citing compliance with the town’s zoning requirements. This sparked a discussion on the limitations imposed by local regulations.

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During the public session, residents and abutters expressed concerns. They were worried about safety and environmental impact, especially regarding horses and their waste affecting the watershed. Also, they questioned the homeowners’ association’s capability to manage the property efficiently. The concerns involved monitoring runoff, financial management and oversight by authorities. The developer’s representative clarified that HOAs are under state scrutiny. They highlighted rigorous evaluation processes for financial stability and consumer protection.

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