An Area Concept Plan (ACP) provides guidance to landowners who are interested in subdividing or developing their properties in the future. These types of plans generally outline acceptable uses, forms and densities of development and the infrastructure required to facilitate such development. The Country Residential ACP was originally created in 2011 to facilitate the development of country residential subdivisions. The original intent of the plan will be maintained through the update process. 

This project is an update to the existing plan. The original intent of the Country Residential Area Concept Plan is not being altered. Also, though the document is in a different format and may look substantially different, the intent of the majority of policies remains the same as the existing Area Concept Plan. Changes to policy intent are only being proposed for specific items within the Area Concept Plan.  

Various legislation, bylaws, policies and best practices have changed since the Country Residential Area Concept Plan was first completed in 2011. We are updating the plan to ensure consistency with these higher level documents. 

We’ve also heard from landowners on challenges and opportunities for improving the plan. This update will look at ways that the County can continue to improve its processes for subdivision and development within the area. 

Strathcona County is a member of the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Board and is required to comply with policies of the Edmonton Metropolitan Region Growth Plan. At this time, the Regional Growth Plan does not allow for any additional country residential opportunities within Strathcona County aside from what is already designated under the existing Municipal Development Plan and Country Residential ACP. 

An Area Structure Plan (ASP) is a statutory (legal) plan that establishes rules for future growth in an area. It outlines how a specific community or neighbourhood can be developed. 

Area Concept Plans are a general future land use concept that guides subsequent development plans, such as a local ASP.   

The Municipal Development Plan is the long-term policy document that guides development over the next 20 years.

Learn more about the documents used in the planning process, and their hierarchy.