A 60,000-square-foot self-storage facility is planned for the site of the old pharmacy at 2400 Cranberry Highway in West Wareham.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a use variance for the project at its July 14 meeting, pending the approval of a full site plan. 

Attorney Dennis Conry, speaking for the project, explained that storage facilities are not a permitted use in any of the town’s zoning districts, although there are already several storage facilities in town. Other uses not allowed in any district include gas stations and mobile home parks.

Conry said that the area already has a number of businesses that are not allowed in the industrial zone, like stores and restaurants, and argued that the self-storage facility would fit in with the surroundings and have a minimal impact on traffic and the nearby Great Hill Mobile Home Park.

Board Chair Nazih Elkallassi said he thought the site was perfect for a retail use, and was disappointed that it would go to a storage facility, which employs few people and wouldn’t bring in as much money for the town.

The facility, which would be climate controlled, would employ two or three people.
The site has been abandoned for 13 years, Conry said, and the owner, who is in his 90s, is eager to sell.

Board Members Jake Morrison and Veronica DeBonise said that there is not much storage available in the area, so there would likely be plenty of customers for the business. 

The board agreed that the building was nicely designed.

Mike Baptiste, speaking as a member of the public, said he thought the business would be a good addition to the area.

The storage facility would be owned by North Star Management, but would likely be managed by a national storage company. 

The board approved the use variance, pending the approval of a full set of site plans.