Leduc adopts amendments to Blackstone Area Structure Plan

LEDUC -- Changes to Leduc's Blackstone Area Structure Plan were approved this week by City Council.

The plan, which provides a framework for subdivision and development, conceptually identifies future land uses for the area along with the location of transportation routes and servicing infrastructure. The primary change outlined in the amendments includes reductions to the commercial area proposed for the neighbourhood and an increase to the medium-density residential zone.

In order to address concerns from Blackstone residents who believe the increase in residential zoning will cause an adverse impact to area traffic, the City has approved plans for a second entrance to the neighbourhood along Grant MacEwan Boulevard.

"I really appreciate the willingness of the developer to expedite some of the issues with traffic to Grant MacEwan, and as well moving towards a multi-way," said Councillor Brett Baynes. "I thought that was favourable for some of the issues that we've been hearing from residents." 

The City says in its report that as development progresses in the area, Grant MacEwan Boulevard will ultimately become a four-lane arterial road. The only change to transportation connections is the removal of the north-south collector connection south to the future Highway 2A bypass, which was removed due to its proximity to the future intersection at Grant MacEwan.

Other concerns voiced by residents related to the reduction to the commercial area in the Blackstone neighbourhood. During public engagement, the residents had said that reducing commercial space would cause problems for those who rely on access to nearby local amenities. 

"Although no neighbourhoods are perfect, I think that we're working hard to make this one as good as it can be," said Councillor Bill Hamilton. "I look forward to seeing how Blackstone turns out." 

City Planner Emily Kralka says that Blackstone is currently the only neighbourhood on the southwest side of the City of Leduc (south of the railway line) that has a planned commercial area over one hectare in size. The latest changes to the Blackstone ASP also include a minor reconfiguration of a local park space.