The new Glenbow Ranch Area Structure Plan (GRASP) is one step closer to creation after Rocky View County (RVC) council adopted the Terms of Reference Feb. 24.
According to RVC administration, the terms provide direction for the review of a portion of the Bearspaw Area Structure Plan, which would facilitate the development of the new GRASP. This document would establish the scope, timeline and goals of the GRASP.
The Terms of Reference include an approximate study area of 7,671 acres of land located south of Highway 1A, north of the Bow River and between the Town of Cochrane and the City of Calgary. The GRASP would replace a portion of the Bearspaw ASP, as the land is located within the Bearspaw ASP’s boundaries.
Included in the study area is the Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park, which, according to RVC administration, constitutes a “significant new feature” in the Bearspaw area. One of the objectives of the new GRASP is to provide a sensitive integration of the natural features and historical areas of the park with the surrounding development.
“Personally, I am very excited about this project,” said Richard Barss, senior planner with RVC. “This (Terms of Reference) will guide area development in a manner that will protect park values and support park operations.”
Clearly stated within the proposed Terms of Reference, development would be integrated to enhance the experience of living in proximity to a provincial park, while minimizing the adverse impacts of development and park users.
However, according to RVC administration, this statutory document would still potentially affect thousands of residents from RVC, as well as adjacent municipalities – the Town of Cochrane and the City of Calgary. Barss said the ASP development process would include many opportunities for the public to provide input.
“As part of the stakeholder engagement process, we will be keeping them appraised and drawing out their specific interests,” said Barss. “Part of this process is not focused just on these lands, but connecting with residents in the greater community. That’s very important, and will all be part of the engagement process.”
Area councillor Al Sacuta moved to adopt the Terms of Reference, and the motion was carried unanimously.
Following council’s adoption of the document, administration will proceed with the process of public engagement and the development of the GRASP. A public launch date is anticipated for April 2015, with a first draft at the end of the year and a public hearing in the second quarter of 2016.
