Leduc continues development of Blackstone neighbourhood

LEDUC -- Leduc City Council has approved the next stage of development for the Blackstone neighbourhood.

As part of "Blackstone Stage 10", the southeastern portion of the area has been rezoned to facilitate new residential growth while also adding a neighbourhood green space. The latest development includes 30 lots for front drive zero lot line single detached housing, 20 lots for rear lane townhomes, and a new green space. According to the municipality, these lots will provide a range of housing options for residents. 

Planning and Development Manager Dennis Peck says the Stage 10 area is bounded by privately owned lands to the east, lands within the County of Leduc to the south, and previously approved stages of the neighbourhood which are currently under development to the north and west. He adds that the new green space planned for the area will not impact the nearby planned school site.

"The park is being created through a realignment of municipal reserve, originally planned for a larger, but not yet fully developed park located to the central, southeast portion of the neighbourhood," said Peck. "So, that's still an area in terms of design considerations that was figured to be suitable for a small pocket park in this area."

He says that for zero lot line development, the City requires a 1.5 metre easement be registered on the adjacent property to allow for encroachment of eaves, drainage and general access for maintenance purposes.  In order to encourage fire safety, the Alberta Building Code requires that the sides of the buildings have fire-rated drywall, and places restrictions on wall penetrations such as windows, doors, dryer, furnace, water heater and fireplace vents, and fresh air intakes. 

Peck also notes that the latest development plans for the Blackstone neighbourhood is consistent with the City of Leduc's Municipal Development Plan, as well as the Blackstone Area Structure Plan (ASP).