A large turnout is anticipated for this Saturday's public meeting on the proposed area structure plan for the "South Lands" of the Franciscans.

The Franciscans are pursuing a residential development on approximately 140 of their 480 acres.  They have been exploring their options for the last 18 months and are now about to develop the area structure plan (ASP).

The development would be located on the bench of the South Lands that is a relatively large flat area. The bulk of their land is within Rocky View County, where the Mount Francis Retreat will continue to be located, 

The meeting will begin with a presentation by the Franciscans ad hoc committee, followed by a Q&A period where attendees can provide comments and ask questions of the panel. Comment forms and engagement boards will be available to provide feedback.

A robust discussion with the community is important to the Franciscans before proceeding with the ASP, explains Tamille Beynon, senior communications and engagement specialist for the B&A Planning Group.

"The Franciscans have been in Cochrane for 70 years and have some great relationships. They want to make sure they involve the public throughout the process," says Beynon.

The ad hoc committee was formed in 2018. This June they made an initial presentation to town council, outlining possible scenarios. The ad hoc committee has since received further direction from the Holy Spirit Province of Canada.

In addition to a residential component, the application will include mobility improvements, environmental reserve areas, pathways and connections, and community amenities.

"It did include residential, but more importantly, it formalized access and provides some transportation improvements for the folks in Cochrane Heights and Sunterra Heights," says Beynon.

The land's topography ranges from slopes to rolling hills to flats. Beynon says they are keen on hearing what Cochranites would like to see on land set aside as green space.

"That's one of the things we'd like to hear from the community. We know Cochrane has a lot of green space and great parks. but maybe there is something that the town is missing that the Franciscans can consider including in their project."

"We know a lot of people use the hill for recreation, although it is privately owned property right now. Included in their guiding principles is formally allowing access to the public so people can enjoy some of these views and vistas."

Earlier in the day, a neighbours meeting is being held for residents and businesses who will be impacted by any decisions made on the land.

The public meeting is being held at the Cochrane Lions Events Centre, 109-5th Ave. It runs from 2 to 4 p.m.