By SOS Hull

Once open space is gone, it’s gone forever.

Future generations will never be able to stand on one of the only spots on the planet where they could see the sunrise and the sunset over the water – bay to the west, ocean to the east..

A group of concerned residents in Hull is trying to save this beautiful, vulnerable open land, the last remaining sizeable open space in Hull, from the Hull Redevelopment Authority’s plan for private developers to create multi-story condos, a boutique hotel, and retail establishments. Membership in the newly formed SOS Hull provides individuals an opportunity to get involved and help with this effort.

SOS Hull’s Mission is to pause current HRA development proposals to allow additional time for townspeople to propose alternatives for the HRA land that maintain open space from the bay across to the ocean, as well as consider community-focused economic opportunities rather than private development.

There are draft development proposals to build approximately 115 condominiums, a boutique hotel, and retail space on this property that lies between Nantasket Beach and the Weir River Estuary, also known as Hull Bay.

The designated area lies in a flood zone and is considered a barrier beach and coastal dune. SOS Hull is concerned that rising sea levels and climate change will affect this area in the not-too-distant future. We question the decision to develop in such a fragile natural resource.

Instead of building condos and a hotel in an area that is subject to flooding, we would like to protect this natural resource and seek alternate uses, such as passive recreation and activities that could be enjoyed by the community and visitors alike today and for future generations.

Important reminders:

• Next in-person HRA workshop to discuss the proposed development plans will be on March 27 at 7 p.m. at Hull High School.

• Town meeting will be on May 1.

For more information on SOS Hull, visit the group on Facebook, fill out the contact form at https://bit.ly/sos02045 or email soshull123@gmail.com.