Aurora Development News

Town Board Considers Special Use Permit for 1196 Big Tree Road Campground

The town board held a public hearing for a special use permit for 1196 Big Tree Road to operate a campground. The applicant, Carer Development Group, presented their plan for a wellness retreat-style glamping ground, which includes sleeping quarters in a main house, another house, and two treehouses, totaling approximately 18 sleeping quarters. Accessory uses include a wellness center and an open-air lodge. The applicant addressed concerns about large gatherings by reducing the size of the lodge. They highlighted their experience operating similar campgrounds in the Fingerlakes region and their process of working with the planning board, which recommended approval. Several residents expressed concerns about increased traffic on Big Tree Road due to the existing poor road conditions and accidents, potential changes to the neighborhood character, noise, impact on property values, and the precedent this might set. Others spoke in favor, emphasizing the economic benefits, the preservation of the historic property through adaptive reuse, and the alignment with the community's historic character and tourism focus. The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) approved the project's first step as a feasible option to restore the property. Cardia Health, currently operating on the property, also expressed support.