Groton Open Space Association

Downes-Patterson Alters Plan For Great Brook Subdivision

GROTON–The Downes-Patterson Corp. has withdrawn its original plan for the Great Brook subdivision north of Route 184 and now plans to submit a new concept for the project, which is located on a tract of land that the State Department of Environmental Protection has designated as a non-sewering area in order to discourage development.

The withdrawal and notice of redesign of the project were submitted to the Planning Commission Nov. 25, 2003, in two separate letters from New London Attorney Timothy D. Bates, representing the developer.

The original plan called for 104 houses closely clustered and served by a sewer system. “Our client has re-designed this plan on a non-cluster basis and wishes to review the concept with you,” the letter from Mr. Bates said. “We look forward to meeting with you at your earliest convenience.” The plan is scheduled to be discussed with the commission at its next meeting, Dec. 4.

The land proposed for the project is located in the watershed of Great Brook, which feeds into the Groton Reservoir system. The state has recommended that because of its importance to the region’s drinking water supply the area be kept free of sewers, which tend to promote further development.