Stettler Town Council has cleared the way for a new commercial development at the corner of 50th Avenue & 70th Street, despite previous pushback from local residents.
Approved on April 21, the development permit authorizes the removal of two residential homes to make room for a multi-phase commercial project.
A Two-Phase Vision
The project, situated on the west end of Stettler, is slated to roll out in two stages:
Phase 1: Construction of a standalone quick-service restaurant with a drive-thru. Infrastructure work is scheduled to begin in May, with business expected to open in March 2027. Word on a franchise is not public at this time.
Phase 2: A strip mall with a mix of professional bays and dining options, including space for a sit-down restaurant. Construction is targeted for April 2027.
Addressing Resident Concerns
The approval follows a public hearing at the previous council in late 2024, where some area residents voiced opposition.Â
Concerns ranged from increased traffic & 24-hour operations to neighborhood loitering.
In response, the Town has attached 28 specific conditions to the permit to mitigate the impact on the surrounding residential area.Â
The developer must install 2.0-metre privacy fencing & considerate lighting to protect adjacent homeowners from noise and glare.Â
Additionally, all vehicle access from 70th Street will be prohibited to keep commercial traffic on the main artery.
The Town will also chip in $6,000 from its economic incentive fund to build a pedestrian pathway along the south side of the site.
The developer, Cornerstone Plaza Stettler, must enter into a formal development agreement & provide security for 100% of the required municipal improvements.            Â
Construction is expected to begin upon issuance of permits, pending the standard 21-day appeal period.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
