By Thane Grauel
WESTPORT — What might be one of the town’s smaller houses might soon be razed to make way for a two-story construction.
The 695-square-foot cottage at 246 Hillspoint Road was built in 1930 and sits across the street from the western stretch of Old Mill Beach.
The single-story house now has a demolition notice affixed to its weathered white asphalt shingles.
The property is just 0.7 acres. It was purchased in December 2022 by Mary-Lisa Bergonzi for $1.5 million.
Tanner White Architects has filed an application with the Zoning Board of Appeals to replace the structure with a new, two-story house with a rooftop deck.
The project will require the ZBA’s approval because of front and rear setbacks, and total area coverage. The application states the hardships of a pre-existing, non-conforming lot and steep slopes.
A coastal site plan review also is needed under the state’s Coastal Area Management Act.
The application is not yet listed on a ZBA agenda.
Thane Grauel grew up in Westport and has been a journalist in Fairfield County and beyond for 35 years. Reach him at editor@westportjournal.com. Learn more about us here.
The last of the old school vibe that made up the charm factor down there.
Once again,so sad. I know where that house is, walked by it many times as a child. Because of the condition of this cottage I can’t complain about it being demolition. But to replace it with TWO structure story is an abomination for the Town of Westport. It must be that members of the P&Z and ZBA must be newer Westports not natives, except for Mr. Ezzes. Their plan for building in Westport seems to have no limits. Eventually it will be called the NEW TOWN IF WESTPORT.
For some of you old timers: This was the home of Mrs. Dorothy Thomas. Long time substitute teacher at Saugatuck El. (Bridge St) back in 50’s and 60’s..Two sons, Scott and Donny. Lovely woman.
The replacement makes the shabby cottage look beautiful. What is this design called, shipping container?
This is beyond the reality of what Westport has been as a town, as a history, as a place where the history of Saugatuck is the history of Westport itself.
WTF does this square building illustration mean to Westport other than an insulting gesture?