City receives ministerial award for red tape reduction

The City of Leduc is proud of the recently changed Edmonton Airport Vicinity Protection Area (AVPA) regulation and is honoured that this project was selected as the winner of the 2023 Minister’s Award for Municipal Excellence for Red Tape Reduction. 

The regulation was amended in May 2022. As part of this process, the noise contours that restricted development in Leduc were reduced by 30 per cent. This, paired with the construction of the 65th Avenue Interchange, creates a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reimagine how Leduc will grow and develop. 

“In Leduc we believe building a community is a partnership and are committed to and encourage growth that will benefit the City of Leduc and the region,” says City of Leduc Mayor Bob Young. “We are pleased with how the amended regulations reduce red tape and helps create an environment where new opportunities for residential, commercial and industrial development in Leduc are possible.” 

Changes to the AVPA regulation were developed collaboratively between Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and the City of Leduc. Engagement also took place throughout the process, initially led by the Province with the City and YEG, and later by the City with local businesses and residents. 

The recent updates were made possible by recognizing that aircraft have advanced greatly in the past few years. As the adoption of new aircraft and phasing out of older aircraft has occurred, engines have become quieter and more efficient. Aircraft pathways have also changed, which results in more efficient operations and permitted reduced noise contours and increased developable lands. 

"The AVPA is an important piece of regulation for both the airport and the surrounding communities because it helps ensure that our airport is able to operate on a 24/7 basis,” says Steve Maybee, Vice President of Infrastructure, Facilities and Airside Operations, Edmonton International Airport (YEG). “It supports our commitment to serve our region with the around-the-clock movement of people and goods, globally.” 

Learn more about the AVPA regulation and the efforts involved in updating it.