The Town of Strathmore is planning a new area of development.
During a meeting on July 23, council received an update on a proposed annexation of land to the west of town. The project is called the Strathmore West Area Structure Plan (SWASP).
The plan envisions interconnected neighbourhoods, roads, and utility networks, along with small-scale commercial and institutional uses.
With a focus on economic growth, housing affordability, and environmental sustainability, the project follows several key planning principles.
These principles prioritize neighbourhoods with amenities within walking distance, the creation of community and neighbourhood nodes, and diverse housing options, from single-family homes to townhouses. Environment policies aim to preserve landscapes, parks, pathways, and playfields. Transportation planning is also being considered to support walking, cycling, transit, and driving.
"It is anticipated that urban development within the SWASP will proceed generally from south to north and across five phases, and it is likely to take over a decade to reach full build-out," wrote Johnathan Strathdee, communications manager with the Town of Strathmore.
The town's Municipal Development Plan (MDP) is also preparing Strathmore for growth over the next 30 to 50 years. One population growth scenario predicts the town could experience an increase of up to 35,000 people.
"If approved, the SWASP would accommodate some of this proposed growth, along with the town's nine existing approved ASPs," Strathdee wrote.
As planning continues and the housing prices rise, the town is awaiting feedback from a Community Information Session (CIS) held on June 12 at the Strathmore Agricultural Grounds.
"This CIS was attended by approximately 50 to 60 people, and the feedback received is expected to be shared with the town in a What We Heard report," Strathdee noted.
With long-term planning underway, the future of Strathmore's west side remains in development. The SWASP is expected to play a key role in shaping the town's future, reflecting community values of affordability, sustainability, and connection.