The Town of Cochrane and Rocky View County are taking the next step in planning for the future together. Both municipalities have now approved the Terms of Reference to update their Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP) and create a new Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework (ICF).
This work reflects the strong partnership between Cochrane and Rocky View County and a shared commitment to responsible growth, good planning, and regional collaboration.
Intermunicipal Development Plans are required under Alberta’s Municipal Government Act and are the highest-level local planning documents between neighbouring municipalities. With Cochrane and Rocky View County continuing to grow, and following the dissolution of the Calgary Metropolitan Region Board, this is the time to ensure regional planning tools reflect current needs and future opportunities.
“This work speaks to the strength of the relationship between Cochrane and Rocky View County,” said Cochrane Mayor Nagel. “As we look ahead, this plan is about being intentional—thoughtfully guiding where and how we grow, while also being clear about where growth is not appropriate. It’s about shaping a future that balances opportunity with stewardship and reflects the values of both our communities.”
The updated IDP will provide a coordinated framework for growth and development in areas along the shared boundaries. It will address matters such as future land use, infrastructure, transportation, and the environment. The plan will also help reduce land use conflicts, improve coordination between the two municipalities, and provide greater certainty for residents and developers.
“This is an important step in strengthening how Rocky View County and the Town of Cochrane work together to plan for the future,” said Rocky View County Reeve Samra. “We are building on a strong foundation of partnership to ensure growth is managed thoughtfully, infrastructure and services are considered collaboratively, and the interests of residents, landowners, and businesses are well supported. This work will help both municipalities plan with greater clarity, respond to changing needs, and protect the landscapes and communities that make this region unique.”
The project will be carried out as a joint effort, with both municipalities participating as equal partners. A joint project team, working group, and Intermunicipal Committee will support the work and help guide decisions throughout the process.
Public engagement will be an important part of the process. Two phases of engagement are planned to gather feedback from residents, landowners, developers, and other interested parties, and to provide an opportunity to review the draft plan before it is finalized.
For more information and project updates, check out the Proposed Intermunicipal Development Plans page.
Key highlights:
- The updated Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP) will provide a coordinated framework for growth and development along shared boundaries and will address future land use, infrastructure, transportation, and the environment.
- An IDP is not intended to address detailed site planning, annexation agreements, or cost-sharing agreements.
- The new Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework (ICF) will set out how Cochrane and Rocky View County will work together on shared services, infrastructure, and funding.
- This project builds on the legacy of the RancheHouse Accord. Its principles will be incorporated into both the updated IDP and the new ICF to support continued collaboration.
- The project is supported through joint municipal investment, including funding from a $200,000 Alberta Community Partnership grant.
- The IDP must be completed by November 30, 2027.