MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — A Danvers-based biotech’s plan to build a new campus has received the Zoning Board of Appeals’ unanimous approval.
Meeting last Wednesday, the Zoning Board of Appeals’ 5-0 decision to provide the zoning relief needed to build on the disturbed portion of an old quarry at the building site off Atwater Avenue means the project is one step closer to its formal approval by the Planning Board.
“It was an important green light for the project,” said Paul Young, a spokesman for Cell Signaling Technologies. “We are extremely happy with the continuing support we have received from the community and the town.”
Young said the vote clears the way for the biotech company to file for review of a site plan that includes building on land previously disturbed by gravel quarrying. The construction plan calls for the building of two research-and-development laboratories that would eventually employ about 500 workers. The main part of the proposed campus would be located behind the Manchester Athletic Club and just east of the Brady Industrial Park, according to company officials.
In addition, the vote by the Zoning Board of Appeals allows project planners to meet a Planning Board request to hide the building as much as possible from Route 128, which is adjacent to the site.
“That supports our mutual sustainability goals,” Young said .
Cell Signaling officials tentatively plan to file their plans with the Planning Board by mid to late December in order to possibly appear before the board sometime in January, according to Young.
“Prior to that, we hope to have a site walk with the Planning Board,” said Young.
Stephen Hagan can be reached at 978-675-2708 or at shagan@gloucestertimes.com.