Ever since the Route 1 Study Report failed to resolve the future of the small commercial district in Wequetequock, there has been a need for a master plan of development for the area. Wequetequock village, which played such an important part of the early development of Stonington, has been ignored by planners who have been instructed to concentrate on the three major villages.

It is essential that the town recognizes the potential of redeveloping the commercial district as an integral part of the Wequetequock village. With its history, beautiful salt marshes, the cove with its wonderful bird life and nearby Barnes Island Nature Reserve, the village could become a major attraction for bird watchers, fishermen and nature lovers.

An application currently before Planning and Zoning to build a new 250 seat event center on Route 1, with frontage on the Cove, will, if approved, commercialize the small district to a point of no return. The public hearing is on May 19.

I believe that any new development in a flood zone should only be permitted as a part of a master plan that would include the recommendations of both the Climate Change Committee and the Plan of Conservation and Development.

Ian Camfield

Stonington