By Thane Grauel

WESTPORT — The Planning and Zoning Commission has granted approval for a Mediterranean food chain and a mattress store to move into the newly renovated 606 Post Road East.  

The commission voted Monday to approve a special permit/site plan. Parking relief was needed because zoning regulations require more spaces for a mattress store than other retail uses.

At a previous hearing on the matter, the owners of Westport Hardware and Hammer and Nails Grooming Shop for Guys, worried that parking would be insufficient if CAVA — a popular fast-casual eatery with no locations in neighboring towns — drew a large lunchtime crowd.

Rich Velez, owner of Westport Hardware, spoke again Monday. He still worried about parking, a reconfiguration of the rear spots that would squeeze out where he stores bagged goods on skids, and the ability of trucks to navigate the rear lot for deliveries.

But commission members appeared satisfied that the dialogue between Velez and Jack deVilliers, senior vice president, senior market officer for Regency Centers, a national shopping center developer, would be successful.

“In the real world I think getting three assigned parking spaces in front of Westport Hardware and engaging one of the leaders at Regency to be really involved hands-on with the tenants is probably the best that we’re going to able to negotiate,” Chairwoman Danielle Dobin said.

“If they’re going to work this out, it’s for the benefit of everyone,” member Marcia Falk said of the dialogue between the tenants and the landlord.

The commission voted 5-2 to approve the special permit/site plan.

Member Patrizia Zucaro voted against, saying allocating parking spots was best left to the landlord and the tenant. Member John Bolton also voted against, based on the same condition.

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.