In 2021, Sturgeon County adopted the Sturgeon Valley South Area Structure Plan (ASP) to guide future growth. As part of this long-term vision, Planning Area 1—a 402-hectare area located south of Sturgeon Road and adjacent to the Cities of St. Albert and Edmonton—is now the focus of a more detailed Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan (NASP).

On May 27, 2025, Council gave first reading to Bylaw 1684/25, officially starting the NASP approval process for Planning Area 1. This plan takes the high-level vision of the ASP and adds greater detail around land use, housing density, road layouts, infrastructure, parks, and trails.

What the Neighbourhood Areas Structure Plan (NASP) Could Include

The Neighbourhood Area Structure Plan (NASP) builds on the Area Structure Plan (ASP) and lays the groundwork for complete, well-connected neighbourhoods. The plan includes:

• A mix of low and higher-density residential development
• Local commercial hubs at key intersections
• Multi-use trail systems linked to parks and natural areas
• Designated sites for schools, emergency services, and community amenities
• Responsible stormwater and utility servicing

Once approved, the NASP will enable developers to submit Outline Plans—the next level of detailed planning required before subdivision and construction.

This is a key step toward realizing the full potential of Sturgeon Valley South: vibrant, livable communities that blend natural beauty with thoughtful infrastructure. Watch this page for updates and opportunities to help shape the future of your community.

Building a Vibrant, Sustainable Future in Sturgeon Valley South

Sturgeon Valley South has the potential to develop scenic trails that connect parks, abundant green spaces, and small-scale commercial hubs to support daily needs.

The planned average development density is 35 dwelling units per net residential hectare, meeting all provincial and regional policy requirements. A variety of housing types will be featured - including single-detached homes, townhouses, duplexes, and multi-unit apartments - on lots smaller than what currently exist in Sturgeon Valley neighbourhoods.

To ensure a smooth transition between existing and new developments, the plan includes thoughtful density shifts. Areas near existing homes will see approximately 20 units per net residential hectare, while zones closer to Edmonton and Anthony Henday Drive will gradually increase to 45 units per hectare, aligning with the neighbouring city’s urban fabric.

Based on private development approvals and market demand, the community could grow by about 2.1% annually, starting with around 80 new dwellings per year and reaching up to 235 per year over time. In total, Sturgeon Valley South could welcome up to 8,300 new residents over the next 25 years.

Sturgeon County follows a “growth pays for growth” approach—private developers will fund the infrastructure needed to support these new neighbourhoods.