Wayland May Demo 'Attractive Nuisance' House Along Cochituate Road

WAYLAND, MA — A group of town public safety officials are urging the select board to demolish an abandoned home off of Cochituate Road that's been a persistent nuisance due to vandalism and thefts.

The 212 Cochituate Road home burned in 2013, causing extensive smoke and fire damage. The lone resident wasn't able to return to the home after the fire, and the town took possession of it in 2017 after a tax foreclosure.

The home is located far back from Cochituate Road/Route 27 at the end of a long driveway. The location gives vandals cover to break into the home, and the two cars still located on the property. The home also abuts occupied homes along Woodridge Road and High Rock Road.

"Due to the long driveway and the house being set far back from the road, the unsightliness of this blighted property is hidden from view. However, the condition of this property is creating a public health nuisance and hazard, inviting vandalism, rodents and vermin to the property, as well as creating serious public safety hazards," town officials including Health Director Julia Junghanns, Police Chief Ed Burman, Fire Chief Neil McPherson and Building Commissioner Mike Crisafulli wrote to the select board in July.

The select board is set to discuss and possible take action on the property at Monday's meeting.