Red Deer’s Carnival Cinemas building in Capstone could soon be turned into a commercial/residential complex.
On Monday, Red Deer city council will consider an application to fast-track a zoning change for the property just off Taylor Drive and 47th Street.
The corner lot is currently not zoned for residential development. It operated as a movie theatre and arcade for about 27 years.
But the Carnival Cinema building has been up for sale since 2022, and there’s now “pending ” interest to redevelop the site into commercial space and offices on the ground level and residences above, according to a report going to city council.
Owner Bill Ramji could not immediately be reached for comment on Friday. But he previously stated his intention was to move the cinema to another location and allow this prime “gateway” corner to become a catalyst for more Capstone development.
Since Carnival Cinemas is a destination for movie-goers, Ramji said it could really operate anywhere in Red Deer. He had been checking out various lease options, including in existing malls.
At Monday’s council meeting, councillors will discuss a rezoning application to facilitate the proposed mixed-use complex. Council previously approved fast-tracking any development application that could increase the city’s housing supply.
City administration supports this rezoning. So far no public opposition was expressed, and the lot’s ample parking and corner location were mentioned as being beneficial for increasing density in the area.
The Municipal Development Plan for Capstone also encourages residential development on vacant or underutilized parcels of land in developed neighbourhoods.
If council gives initial approval to this rezoning, there will be a public hearing set for Monday, May 13.
If the rezoning application gets final approved by council, the next step is for the applicant to apply for a development permit.
