SOUTHWICK – The Board of appeals unanimously approved a variance for residents at the corner of Berkshire Avenue and Pine Road last night.
Valerie and Sal Robustelli, of 2 Pine Road, requested a hearing for a front setback variance of 47 feet in order to make way for an expanded front entrance to their ranch style home.
The Robustellis said their front entrance currently has a four-by-five-foot landing and four-foot stairs that is inadequate.
“We don’t even use it,” said Sal Robustelli. “People come in through the garage.”
Robustelli said he and his wife are concerned that someone could get hurt trying to open the storm door on the narrow landing.
Members of the board agreed it seemed like a problem.
“I think it meets the hardship requirement,” said board member David Methe.
“Yes, it’s a safety concern,” agreed board member Thomas Stapleton.
The couple submitted drawings made by Sal Robustelli, an engineer, that show an expanded decking that doubles the size of the entryway landing.
“We also plan to have a portico to cover the door with two columns,” said Valerie Robustelli.
There was some discussion of the frontage, as well as distance from the sides of the corner lot property to the neighbors on both Pine Road and Berkshire Avenue. The board agreed there was enough space for the expansion.
“We are actually set back pretty far,” said Valerie Robustelli.
“I’m good with this,” said Stapleton. “I applaud you for coming forward and following the rules – a lot of people don’t.”
Sal Robustelli said he is “handy” and could do most, or all, of the work himself and he wanted to make sure he received the proper permits and approval.
Stapleton, Methe and Chairman Paul A. Grégoire approved the variance after hearing from the couple. No one else attended the hearing but the Robustellis said their neighbors all received notification and many expressed their approval.
