The Charlemont Planning Board, in a public hearing at Town Hall in Charlemont, unveiled plans by couple Jeffrey and Jennifer Neilsen to transform the Warfield House Inn into the Hinata Mountainside Resort, a destination for glamping enthusiasts.
The proposed luxurious resort, aiming for a May 1, 2025 opening, represents a blend of luxury and nature, poised to employ 15-20 individuals at its inception.
The Neilsens’ proposal encompasses the improvement of the existing restaurant alongside the construction of 32 deluxe cabins across 31 acres of the 473-acre property, respecting the landscape’s integrity and minimizing the environmental footprint. Each 500-square-foot cabin promises a serene retreat with amenities like small decks and optional hot tubs, encapsulating the essence of glamping—a luxurious alternative to traditional camping.
The project, however, is not without its complexities. During the hearing, concerns from Charlemont residents emerged, including potential traffic increases, light pollution, and the potential for noise disturbances, according to a Greenfield Record report.
Addressing traffic concerns, civil engineer Jim Scalise assured that peak traffic volumes would remain below current allowances, with plans to exceed parking requirements by providing 127 spaces. The project also includes a strategic cul-de-sac design for emergency vehicle access and measures to protect native flora, particularly maple trees.
Parallel to these discussions, Charlemont’s sewer and wastewater infrastructure came under scrutiny. Historical precedents in wastewater management set the stage for future negotiations, indicating a pathway for the resort’s integration into the existing system, albeit with conditions to ensure community and environmental well-being.
Issues of light pollution and its impact on the town’s nocturnal ambiance were also brought up, alongside worries about noise and alcohol consumption, particularly from younger guests.
For campground and RV park owners, the proposal provides insight into understanding possible local concerns and regulatory requirements that can slow down or deny the approval of a proposed project.
For more information about the proposed glamping resort, click here.