Greenwich's Burning Tree Country Club Seeks Upgrades: P&Z Docs

GREENWICH, CT — Burning Tree Country Club in Greenwich is looking to upgrade several amenities at its facility located at 120 Perkins Road.

Phase 1 of the club's master plan, which was submitted to the Greenwich Planning & Zoning Department, include upgrades to the aquatics and recreation center. In the future, the master plan will pursue upgrades to the golf driving range and tennis pavilion, and the clubhouse.

"Proposed changes to these areas will address essential upgrades and what we've pinpointed as the strongest desires of our current members and the next generation of members, ensuring there is truly something new and exciting for everyone," the club said in a submitted presentation. "By approaching each area individually, we will also be able to transform our club in phases with minimal interruptions to the member experience."

Burning Tree's non-golf amenities are "becoming dated, and upgrades are required in order for the club to continue to provide excellent services to its members," submitted documents said.

The proposal is expected to go before the Planning & Zoning Commission for a pre-application review in the coming weeks. The pre-application process generally allows for a non-binding discussion with the commission about the pros and cons of a proposal.

The club is planning to demolish and replace the existing one-level pool building that contains lockers and a snack bar, and demolish and replace the current paddle tennis building, the submitted documents state.

Additionally, the club is looking to expand the pool side deck and renovate the alocohol serving building that serves the pool area and golfers between the 9th and 10th holes with an extended patio.

Notably, there would be a new open-air poolside bar, upgraded poolside snack bar and dining, new locker rooms, a new paddle hut, 1,500 square foot youth center and a 3,000 square foot fitness center/multi-use facility, among other upgrades, submitted documents said

Burning Tree Country Club was founded in 1962, according to the club's website.

The 25-meter competition pool facility and paddle tennis courts opened in 2001.

These new facilities will be built on an area of the 158-acre property that was already developed, so there won't be any decrease of green area, said Christopher D. Bristol, attorney for the applicant. They will remain removed from neighboring properties and will not materially obstruct significant views.

There will continue to be ample parking.

"Thus, construction of the upgraded facilities will not be detrimental to the neighborhood or alter its essential characteristics," Bristol added.

Bristol noted the new facilities will not change or expand the club's use on property. Membership will not increase in connection with the project or otherwise, so there won't be any adverse traffic conditions in the area.

Final site plan and special permit applications will be filed after the pre-application review, Bristol said. At the same time, an application will be filed with the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency.