The Planning Board's responsibilities are to:
A.) Make studies or plans of the resources, needs and possibilities of the Town and B.) Consider land use and the layout and functioning of the public way as they affect public health and safety.
A. The Town's most recent plan is Master Plan 2000, a collaborative effort of residents working with the Board to set goals for land use, housing, economic development, open space and natural and historic resources. Goal statements are as follows:
1. Character - Preserve the character of Manchester as exemplified by its scale, density and the inherent charm of its diverse architecture, shops, streets and natural and historic features.
2. Conservation - Continue to be vigilant in the protection and acquisition of environmentally sensitive areas such as land contributing to the water supply, flood plains and wetlands, as well as aesthetic or otherwise significant parcels of land.
3. Commercial - Work to make the downtown more accessible and attractive and support the vitality of local businesses.
4. Coastal Areas - Develop an overlay plan for the preservation, management and improvement of the beaches, harbor and coastal areas.
5. Growth - Adopt policies that balance growth with the limitations of the Town’s infrastructure and natural resources, and respect its character and the quality of life of its residents.
B. The Board hears applications relating to the use and division of land which fall into five general categories:
1. Approval Not Required (ANR): the endorsement of a lot conforming to specific requirements
2. Subdivision: the division of land into two or more lots, subject to specific Subdivision Rules and Regulations.
3. Special Permit: required by law for a change of use or for a use not allowed by right in a certain district (zone) or in an overlay of that zone.
4. Site Plan Approval: required for a significant expansion or change of use of a property
5. Opinions: may be requested by other boards on matters before them.
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