Further development of industrial land west of Hwy 2 — including the creation of an eco-industrial park — moved a step forward on Wednesday, when Red Deer’s municipal planning commission voted to support a plan related to two quarter-sections there.
The Queens Business Park SW36 & NW25 Industrial Area Structure Plan would cover a 328-acre parcel south of Hwy 11A and west of Burnt Lake Business Park.
The northern third of Cameo Lake, a body of water that consists of approximately 50 acres, would fall within the plan area.
The total developable area, after environmental and municipal reserves, roadways and public utility lands are removed, would be 202 acres.
It would tie into city water and sewage systems.
The industrial area structure plan, which was prepared by engineering consulting firm Genivar Inc. on behalf of the landowner, calls for mostly light industrial uses there.
These could include such things as warehousing, storage and industrial support businesses.
However, about 5.3 acres could revert to commercial development, and 44 acres are earmarked for an eco-industrial park.
That park, which would surround the portion of Cameo Lake within the plan area, would be a place where businesses could collaborate to reduce waste, promote green technologies, preserve natural features and utilize each other’s byproducts. Sustainable buildings and sites are also contemplated.
Most of the plan area is currently used for agriculture, with three residential acreages also located there. Development would proceed in four phases, moving generally from east to west.
The municipal planning commission is recommending that city council approve the industrial area structure plan.
hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com