Seniors in Lacombe are excited about the new Henner Heights development plan which will provide seniors with long-term housing and services.

Many showed up to Burman University last night to provide feedback on the latest plans for the new residential community at the north end of Lacombe. 

The Henner Heights development will provide housing for around 2,300 people and one specific area reserved for seniors housing. 

Long-time Lacombe resident Gerry Wasylyshen said he loves the idea and says it’s important for people who have roots in Lacombe to have the option to stay here when they get older.   

“Lacombe is a great place, so where do you go? A lot of people have family and friends and want to stay here. This should provide it,” said Wasylyshen.

“I think it’s a real decent way for the seniors to be able to have a place where they can be looked after.”

Wasylyshen added he likes the location and the amenities that will be offered.

“It’s close to the college, there’s entertainment here, there’s good walking paths and they are basically providing all the services. It’s great,” said Wasylyshen.

Marten Van Huizen of Field and Marten Associates Inc. is playing a major role in the planning and development and said the construction will start with the senior’s accommodation.

“It’s best described as an aging-place community which will have variety and a range of housing likely starting with duplexes with masters on the main,” said Van Huizen.

“There will be easy access to the apartment buildings and will also include underground parking.”

With the land owned by Burman, the university has provided guiding principles including a lot of trail opportunities, open space, traffic circulation and servicing.

The project is in the conceptual stage and is waiting for the outline plan approval from city council.

Once the plan is approved then a date will be set to start construction. The cost of the project is yet to be determined.