Will Plainville's New Vision Put Its Character at Risk?

Plainville's Open Space Plan Revision Draws Mixed Reactions

A proposed revision to a key land use document in Plainville is generating significant debate among residents and officials. The focus of the discussion is a section concerning future development and the preservation of open spaces within the community.

Shifting Focus in Land Management

The original plan designated several large, privately-owned parcels of land as potential candidates for future public acquisition. The updated version, however, has removed these specific references. Proponents of the change argue that the previous language created unrealistic expectations among the public, as the town lacks the financial resources to purchase these properties.

They contend that the revised plan offers a more pragmatic approach, focusing on broader strategies for conservation that do not target specific private lands. This, they say, provides clearer and more actionable guidance for the town's future growth.

Community Concerns Over Lost Opportunities

Opponents of the revision have voiced strong concerns. They fear that by removing the identification of these key parcels, the town is surrendering valuable opportunities to preserve its character. Critics argue that even without immediate funds, having a "wish list" in an official document is a critical first step for seeking future grants or negotiating with landowners.

Some residents worry that this shift in policy could inadvertently pave the way for more intensive development on these very tracts of land, potentially altering the town's rural appeal and putting a strain on local services and infrastructure.

The Path Forward

The town's planning commission is currently reviewing the draft. A public hearing is expected to be scheduled, offering community members a formal opportunity to voice their opinions on the matter before a final decision is made. The outcome will shape the town's approach to balancing growth and conservation for years to come.

What do you think?

• Is it more responsible for a town to have ambitious conservation goals it can't yet afford, or should plans only include what is immediately financially feasible?


• Does identifying land for potential preservation unfairly penalize the private landowners involved?


• Is the push for more open space preservation ultimately a tool that limits housing supply and drives up costs for younger residents?