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Poised For Development

County paving way for commercial development on airport lands

Mar 25, 2020 | 6:58 PM

Red Deer County Council has cleared the way for the development of retail stores and automotive dealerships near Red Deer Regional Airport.

On Tuesday, council passed second and third readings of a Land Use Bylaw (LUB) amendment that adds “Retail Store-Minor” to the list of permitted uses in the Business Service Airport District, as well as “Automotive Service Station” to its list of discretionary uses.

County officials note Red Deer Regional Airport (YQF) is working with a developer who has expressed interest in establishing commercial uses on airport property that are not currently included in the BSA district. As a result, an amendment to the LUB was required to include the two proposed land uses.

Officials point out the Red Deer Regional Airport Area Structure Plan identifies various locations for the development of groundside commercial, which aims to complement services currently provided by the airport, the Hamlet of Springbrook and agricultural operations in Red Deer County.

The LUB defines “Retail Store-Minor” as a development used for the retail sale of consumer goods frequently required by area residents in an enclosed building on a site which does not exceed one acre. Typical uses include, but are not limited to, small food stores, liquor stores and drug stores. This use does not include cannabis sales.

“Automotive Service Station” refers to a facility where automotive fuel, oil, grease, batteries, tires, and automotive accessories may be supplied and/or installed, and where general automotive maintenance such as oil changes, tune ups, and brake repair may take place.

A public hearing regarding the proposed bylaw amendment will take place Apr. 28 in council chambers.