Bradstreet Demolition Delayed

The Historical Commission has voted, 4-2, to delay the demolition of the Bradstreet School building Monday.

This will delay the Hearthstone redevelopment project on that property 12 months. Hearthstone representatives have said they will wait and proceed with planned demolition after the 12-month delay is over.

Kathleen Szyska, chair of the North Andover Historical Commission, said the vote was to show developers that they will have to deal with the Historical Commission when setting eyes on historic buildings in town.

A few months ago, selectmen voted to approve a deal with Hearthstone Realty, which plans to demolish the Bradstreet building and build an enlarged plaza area and retail space along Main Street, 9,500 square feet of office space on the second floor, several townhouses and flats, and 73 total spaces.

According to town bylaw, the Historical Commission must be notified of any plans to demolish a building 100 years or older and have the right to deem the building historically significant. They must then hold a public hearing within 30 days.