Western Heritage Design Framework approved by council. Western Heritage Design Framework will go into effect after approval from council, ushering in new rules for character areas in Cochrane. “I really value and respect the work that’s been done in preserving our identity and the unique character of Cochrane,” said mayor Jeff Genung at a council meeting. According to planner Adam Nordquist, any new development will be required to create some form of on-site interpretation of the framework. Developers will be required to put two per cent of construction costs toward western heritage design, which has increased from the one per cent that council had previously raised concerns about. “I am looking forward to seeing lots of art around town, and some brick maybe,” said councillor Susan Flowers. The framework is an amendment to the land use bylaw that encapsulates non-residential construction in areas under three classifications, old town, Cochrane’s corridors, and the railway transition zone. Old town is defined as the “Historic Town”, Cochrane’s original townsite where there are many historic buildings to be preserved. The railway transition zone is south of the Canadian Pacific Rail tracks, the intention for this area is to celebrate the railway as a defining element of Cochrane’s history. Cochrane’s corridors are made up of the properties along Highway 1A, Highway 22, and Griffin Road. Developments along the corridors will communicate the town’s identity through historic features and themes. “We think it’s going to be a powerful tool when you combine it with the land use bylaw,” said chief administrative officer for the town, Drew Hyndman. There will be no way for developers to opt out of the design framework, and each new development will have to submit designs during the permit application process, demonstrating they are meeting the objectives. The Cochrane Planning Commission recommended a review of the amendment after 12 months, Hyndman said, “If we’re not getting the results we’re expecting, or certainly what council’s expecting, we would be happy to bring it back for a tune-up.”

Provincial $4.2M Active Communities Initiative improving 12 facilities across Alberta

Devon Devon Arts Market: The Arts Association of Devon (AAD) offers a wide variety of original art and unique handmade items by our local artists and artisans. The Arts Market is held each month on a Sunday from Noon to 4 pm. at the centrally located Devon Community Hall – 20 Haven Ave. Market dates are advertised […]

Alberta Fish and Wildlife has received reports of cougar sightings in the Sak-Da-Wah subdivision, east of Whitecourt. “Residents are advised to use caution when in the area or in nearby forested areas,” Woodlands County stated. “If you see a cougar, report it to Alberta Fish & Wildlife at 1-800-642-3800.”  For more information, visit alberta.ca/cougars.

The Vulcan Regional Food Bank Society received two cheques this week from the Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta. The society got a $30,000 grant for its food bank expansion project to cover all costs in getting rescued food to the food bank from outside Vulcan County. Staff are travelling to an Okotoks warehouse […]

The Canyon Church Camp (CCC) has announced a “Build a Bunk” gift giving campaign for the holiday season. The CCC has secured funding for many aspects of its rebuild following the devastation of the Kenow wildfire in 2017, the group says it needs support to complete its camper cabins and make the Waterton camp “a […]

Do you have a photo showing off the town? Whether it be a Devon staple, a slice of nature, or your favourite local spot, send it in for the chance for your photo to be featured in the Dispatch. Submissions can be sent to PWilliams@postmedia.com.

Holidays are traditionally a time for parties, gatherings, and spreading good cheer. We get together and indulge in food and beverages. And, like traditions, some things just don’t change. Driving sober saves lives. Every holiday season, messages about the dangers of impaired driving are seen everywhere. And despite these campaigns, impaired driving continues to be […]

Celebrate the holiday season with Angela Haine, author of the belovedHobbly and Wobblyseries, as she brings her whimsical tales to life during a special book reading event at the Devon Public Library. The event, scheduled for Tuesday, December 17 at 4 p.m., promises to delight children and parents alike with readings from all six of […]

Facing an array of charges, Clayton Jordan Brown appeared before the Alberta Court of Justice in Whitecourt by CCTV while in custody in Edmonton. Numerous charges were resolved by pleas and sentencing was held during the court’s sitting on Dec. 10. “We will be entering a number of guilty pleas,” counsel Richard Forbes told the […]

The two suspects fled the scene when RCMP arrived. They were arrested following the assistance of police dog services.