Demolition Work Begins On Vacant Stafford Business Building

STAFFORD, CT — Protective fencing has been placed around a long-vacant business building on Route 190, the first step toward eventual demolition and redevelopment of the site.

The former home of Backus Motors, which operated at 116 West Main Street for nearly four decades before closing in 2008, will be the site of a new Cumberland Farms convenience store and gas station, one with many more offerings than the current location on Route 32.

In accordance with the chain's plans to upgrade all of its nearly 600 stores, the new location would offer hot breakfast and lunch sandwiches, pizza and expanded beverage options. The Route 190 store would also provide outdoor patio seating, under a proposal approved by the Planning & Zoning Commission last fall.

A sign on the door indicates asbestos removal work is being done on the property, which will be followed by demolition of the old building. The new 24-hour store is slated to cover nearly 5,300 square feet.