Berlin Planning Board Backs ICP Mall Bid, Launches Full Zoning Overhaul

BERLIN -- November 25, 2025, Berlin Planning Board backs industrial redevelopment firm for Solomon Pond Mall, opens zoning overhaul. The board voted 4-0 to approve a sign permit for a new HomeGoods store at Berlin Crossing and received word that Industrial Commercial Properties LLC is on track to close on Solomon Pond Mall around December 22. Chair Tim Wheeler and member Thomas told the board they had rejected a Texas-based group that focused heavily on large-scale residential development in favor of ICP, which they said demonstrated an ability to convert existing mall structures into premium light industrial uses while retaining retail. Wheeler said Marlborough development coordinator Meredith Harris shared the board's preference and that Marlborough's newly reconstituted city council would not begin addressing zoning changes until after the new year, putting May annual town meeting, which requires a two-thirds vote, as the earliest realistic target for overlay modifications. The board also launched a structured review of the town's entire zoning bylaw, with planning consultant Ron assigning sections to individual members and outside reviewers, and a goal of having initial comments collected before Christmas for discussion at the January 13 meeting.