Harwich Planning Board Approves Fitness Studio Waiver for 575 Route 28

HARWICH — May 12, 2026 — Harwich Planning Board unanimously approved a site plan review waiver for a boutique fitness studio at 575 Route 28 in Harwichport. The board voted 4-0 Tuesday to grant the waiver sought by Annabelle Grove of Somersault Studio LLC, allowing 700 square feet of unfinished basement in a previously approved mixed-use building to be converted to group fitness classes capped at 12 participants, with no changes to the building footprint, parking, or exterior lighting. Chair Duncan Berry and members Harry Munz, Annie Newman, and Emily Brady all voted in favor. In a town planner update, staff confirmed Harwich voters last week adopted the Local Comprehensive Plan and a package of zoning amendments; the plan has already been submitted to the Cape Cod Commission to begin certification. The board also flagged a compressed hearing schedule: a multifamily special permit for 297 Route 28 and a building modification at 237 Queen Anne Road are set for May 26, with a potential third hearing at 246 Queen Anne Road on June 9.