Shaping the Future of Growth in Sturgeon Valley

Most of Sturgeon County’s future growth is expected to take place in the Sturgeon Valley. The pace of development depends on market conditions and the interest of private landowners and developers. Current projections suggest a moderate annual growth rate of 2.1%, similar to neighbouring communities. Initially, the Valley could see approximately 150 new dwellings per year, rising to 300 per year in later phases.

The land in Sturgeon Valley is privately owned, and landowners may choose to develop their properties. The area continues to be highly attractive for new neighbourhoods due to its proximity to major regional centres, excellent transportation access, strong servicing potential, and natural beauty.

By planning for long-term, responsible growth and incorporating community feedback, Sturgeon County aims to:

• Protect the interests of current residents and neighbourhoods
• Prevent future annexations
• Diversify the County’s tax base
• Leverage the Valley’s location and existing infrastructure
• Lay the foundation for distinct, complete communities designed to meet the evolving needs of both local and regional residents

What’s Next: Neighbourhood Plans in Progress

Some private landowners are preparing detailed Neighbourhood Area Structure Plans (NASPs) for Sturgeon Valley South or Outline Plans for sites within Sturgeon Valley Core. If approved, these plans are expected to support:

• A variety of housing options that serve residents at all life stages
• Smooth transitions between existing and new neighbourhoods
• New parks, trails, and open spaces to enjoy nature
• Convenient, small-scale shopping and employment areas
• Improved transportation networks, including the completion of 127 Street from Sturgeon Road to Anthony Henday, plus other road upgrades to reduce congestion
• Community spaces and amenities—places to gather, play, and access services
• A more balanced and stable tax base for the County

Through thoughtful planning, the County is working to ensure that growth in Sturgeon Valley enhances quality of life, supports sustainability, and creates communities where people want to live for generations.

Planning New Neighbourhoods in Sturgeon Valley South and Core

To develop neighbourhoods in Sturgeon Valley South, private landowners and developers must prepare Neighbourhood Area Structure Plans (NASPs). These sub-plans must align with the County’s overarching Area Structure Plan and provide general information about the proposed development.

In the Sturgeon Valley Core, Neighbourhood Area Structure Plans are not required. However, developers must prepare detailed Outline Plans.

• Before submitting any plans to the County, private landowners/developers must host a public open house to gather early feedback on their neighbourhood design. A "What We Heard" report summarizing feedback from the open house must be submitted with their formal application to the County
• Once an application for a new neighbourhood is submitted:
  • The County holds a public hearing to collect community input before Council considers the application
  • The "What We Heard" report is included in Council’s agenda package for review
  • Public hearings are advertised in local newspapers, shared on the Sturgeon County website, and promoted on social media
  • Community members are encouraged to participate and provide feedback on the proposed development

Council evaluates all feedback received during the public hearing and considers it alongside regulatory requirements when deciding whether to approve the application.

After a Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan is Approved

If a Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan (NASP) is approved:

• Developers must create an Outline Plan, which includes information about land use, road layouts, trails, and parks. The land use concept within the Outline Plan will form the basis for the rezoning bylaw
• Developers are required to host public engagement sessions about the Outline Plan before submitting it to the County for approval
• A Public Hearing will be held in respect to the rezoning bylaw to allow Council to gather feedback before making a decision. These hearings are also advertised through local newspapers, the County website, and social media

Final Steps: Zoning, Subdivision, and Development

Once the Outline Plan is approved:

• If the zoning bylaw is adopted, developers can then submit subdivision applications, which define individual lot layouts
• The final stage involves securing development and building permits for specific homes