Plans are set in motion to redevelop the old Hole’s location along Bellerose Drive into a multi-unit retail and office space.
Vancouver-based real estate firm Edgar Development Corporation is seeking approval to redistrict the land in order to create Bellerose Village, a 60,177-square-foot development.
“Some won’t like it just because it’s change,” said Chris Dulaba with Edgar Development Corp. “We have been working closely with the Holes [to] ensure that our development does really reflect the history and the nature of what the site once was.”
Before the redistricting application can go to council, a public open house must be held to notify interested residents and property owners of the proposed plans.
The public open house is scheduled for next Tuesday at 7 p.m. A formal presentation will kick off the event, which will be followed by a question-and-answer period, then an informal chance to view display boards and ask any remaining questions.
“We acknowledge that it’s a site that has a significance to the community,” Dulaba said. “We definitely plan to have a higher quality of landscaping throughout the site and we hope to work with the Holes to come up with a landscape concept that again reflects the Holes’ and the native habitat in St. Albert.”
A major focus of the development is walkability, both to the development and within the development. Although he said many people will likely drive to the site, walkways will be in place to ensure those who choose to walk will be able to get around easily and safely.
Dulaba said he didn’t want to divulge many details regarding tenants in the complex, but said the anchor tenants will include a well-known liquor store and drug store.
“We do look for some of the name brand tenants and we’ve been soliciting a whole range of them,” he said. “We do have some commitments from a few, but nothing we want to disclose at this point in terms of specifics.”
The company’s website lists both Rexall and Mac’s as tenants in the complex.
He said other businesses are being explored, including coffee shops, restaurants and various retailers. There is also the possibility of having office space available.
“Until we get some tenants lined up, that may or may not be part of the equation, but it’s definitely something that we’re pursuing,” he said, adding if enough tenants are interested in professional office space, adding a second level is possible.
Council has not yet reviewed the proposal, but Dulaba said council and administration are “keen” on getting more commercial- and industrial-type spaces in St. Albert.
The site marks Edgar Development Corporation’s first endeavour in St. Albert and development is expected to commence in fall 2012.
