RIDGEFIELD – Hundreds of residents have opposed the demolition of a historic building that housed the Red Rooster Pub to make way for a 20-unit multifamily apartment building, according to a petition on change.org
The 43 Danbury Road property was greenlit by the town’s Inland Wetlands Commission for an application to redevelop the pub building on Oct. 24, 2024. It now comes before the Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 21. If approved, demolition of the building could commence and construction could begin this spring.
That could explain the sudden closure Sunday, Jan. 12 of the restaurant, which was owned by Tony Ramadani. The Ridgefield Hamlet Hub quoted a former employee, Lindsey Kinford, as saying in a Facebook post: “I just wanted to say Red Rooster Ridgefield is now closed. We were given less than 24 hours’ notice.”
The restaurant, which also has locations in Wilton and Newtown, opened at 43 Danbury Road in 2018.
More than 550 people signed a petition to save the 1870 building from demolition and thwart the affordable housing apartment complex.
“Ridgefield’s unique charm and historical heritage are under imminent threat,” the petition states. “We must act now to preserve this irreplaceable piece of our town’s history. Here’s why:
Historical Significance: This 150-year-old building is a testament to Ridgefield’s rich past, contributing to the town’s distinctive character and appeal. Its destruction would erase a significant landmark from our community.”
The petition, which was started by Adam Wendel, also list traffic and safety concerns the proposed development would bring to the area. It goes on to list alternative Locations for affordable housing development such as areas along Route 7.
The petition calls for Ridgefield residents attend the Jan. 21 PZC meeting to halt the proposed demolition of the historic building.
“Let’s collaborate to find alternative solutions that accommodate growth without sacrificing the historical essence that defines our town,” Wendel wrote. “Together, we can protect Ridgefield’s heritage and ensure thoughtful development that respects our community’s unique character.”
The meeting is slated for 7 p.m. at East Ridge Middle School.
The Inland Wetlands Commission approved the application with conditions filed by attorney Peter Olson on behalf of Ljatif “Tony” Ramadani in its Oct. 24 meeting. Those conditions included that the area in the upland review area be cleared of invasives and will stay a no-mow vegetated area.
