Save the Willows Cottage

Many of you have seen the Willows Cottage at the entrance to Willows Park. Several months ago there was an item on the BOC agenda concerning approval of demolition of the cottage. Fortunately several folks raised an objection and the Commissioners tabled the action, minutes of the meeting contain this:
Further discussion on use and disposition of 304 Liberty Lane and Willows cottage: authorization to develop demolition specifications and go to bid.
“Thomas Blomstrom advised the Board that demolition costs for the Willows Cottage were $34,000... Commissioner Fisher questioned whether the Township has adequately maintained the Willows cottage and asked how long the property has been vacant. Mr. Bashore reported that the former Township Manager and his family lived in the cottage from 1987 until a few years ago, when the late Manager’s deceased wife moved out. Commissioner Fisher then recommended that the HARB evaluate the property to determine its historical significance before deciding whether to demolish it.
Commissioner Paolino recommended obtaining a cost estimate of rehabilitating the property, with the intentions of salvaging it for some community use. Mr. Bashore agreed to have his staff explore all available resources.
Diane Wilson, resident of Radnor Township, asked how many unoccupied properties are currently owned by the Township. [3 – all occupied and leased]
President Mahoney motioned to authorize the development of construction specs and to go to bid on the Liberty Lane House and to table the decision to demolish the Willows Cottage for further review by the HARB and other appropriate input. Seconded by Commissioner Paolino, the motion was unanimously passed.”

Several concerned individuals have pulled together an informal group to review the situation and they provided an initial report to the Commissioners with recommended actions including installation of sump pumps and redirecting the downspounts away from the house. These actions were promptly taken by the Township staff. (Thanks) This informal group will be making further recommendations at the BOC meeting next week. Both the Radnor Historical Society and the Radnor Conservancy have joined this group. Stay tuned for further developments.