Alberta

The real estate market appears to be on its way to recovery, according to the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB).

The Alberta government wants fewer departments scrutinizing new development in the energy sector - a move that may speed development approvals in the oilpatch but potentially hinder the property development industry.

The City of Spruce Grove just west of Edmonton, recently waded into Alberta's power line debate by opposing a route option for a new high-voltage line on its fringe.

The Town of Canmore is again being urged to look at a rezoning proposal that would make already built hotel condo units easier to finance for new purchasers. The proposal is being spearheaded by local developer Devonian Properties.

Husky antes $4 billion Lloydminster is roaring back with the heavy oil industry, which can thrive at $90 per barrel, particularly in a community where infrastructure and construction costs can be more easily contained.

The City of Edmonton has released a series of conceptual plans from five architectural groups, including Perkins + Will of Vancouver, as it outlined its vision for redevelopment of the 530-acre (217-hectare) former city centre airport.

The Gas City is a step closer to being better known as the Windy City. The City of Medicine Hat received approval from the province's energy regulator in late 2010 to construct a wind farm on its northeast edge.

Building activity in Alberta's two largest urban centres went in opposite directions in 2010, with Edmonton building permit values increasing over the previous years and Calgary building permit values falling.

Building activity in downtown Edmonton could heat up significantly in 2012 and beyond, depending on the outcome of a January 18 public hearing and whether city council backs what city officials are recommending.

The principal city between Calgary and Edmonton recorded less-than-stellar building permit totals for 2010. Red Deer recorded $118.9 million in new permits for 2010, a decline of 15.