Husky Oil wants to build a sleeker and safer gas station and convenience store in downtown Red Deer.
On Monday, city council gave rezoning approval to the company so it could revamp its property at 4505 49th Ave., near Eventide Funeral Chapel.
Calgary consultant David Jacobs said Husky wants to demolish its gas station, which has been in place for more than 40 years.
In its place would be a “market station” that includes a coffee eating area in the convenience store.
Part of its new look will be large windows the length of the store.
No signs will go into the windows so that customers can see in and the employees can see out.
Initially, six neighbours, most of whom came from a nearby condominium development, were concerned about potential noise, increased traffic, lower property values and unsightly conditions.
After speaking with a Husky representative, concerns were eased.
Jacobs anticipates once a development permit is granted, plus a demolition permit, then demolition of the old building can be done.
Construction can then get underway sometime in 2010.