STEVE FELDMAN

BETH DAVIS

Plymouth proposes new oceanside park providing access to White Horse Beach, replacing the aging Full Sail eyesore

The Town of Plymouth faced a generally positive reception from vocal While Horse Beach residents on its plans to purchase and raze the once quaint, but now horribly weathered Full Sail restaurant, and to create a small public park on the site.  The park would provide Plymouth residents additional access to White Horse Beach.  The Full Sail eyesore, originally opened in the mid-1970s, is a seashell’s throw to the ocean.

At a recent public input session, David Gould, director of Plymouth’s Energy and Environment department (the recent rehabber of Stephens Field) said the park upgrade requires review by the Select Board on September 17 and the Committee of Precinct Chairs (date TBD), and a vote at Fall Town Meeting on October 19.

Speaking with the aid of slides, Gould said the renovation would include parking for 24-28 cars on a parcel across the street – maintained by the town.  Parking will be patrolled by a private parking-enforcement firm by day and, at night, by police, who would require cars to depart by dusk.  The parking lot would be open to Plymouth residents with town beach stickers.

If approved, the park would be open to all Plymouth residents, and likely adorned with coastal native plants, permanent seating with shade from attractive triangular sails, and walkways to the beach, Gould said.

Example of shade for “Full Sail” park. 

The estimated figure for acquiring all Full Sail parcels: $650,000.  Abatement and demolition costs of the building itself will be determined by what is found during investigation for lead paint and asbestos, Gould said.

Among residents’ questions and comments: The “dangerous” curve in the road at Taylor Ave. as it turns into White Horse Road, with cars going “much too fast.” Gould said plans call for handsome wood guardrails with metal backings to be installed, along with caution signage. Residents were assured that the parking area would be built and maintained to avoid water runoff onto abutters’ properties.   The park will not have restrooms, based on public input and residents’ requests.

See you at Town Meeting?