Nestled in the southeastern quadrant of Red Deer, Lancaster Green offers a perfect blend of modern living, outdoor recreation, and community spirit. Known for its walkable layout, family-friendly vibe, and easy access to schools and amenities, this neighborhood remains one of Red Deer’s most desirable places to live. In 2024, Lancaster Green continues to attract residents from diverse backgrounds, including families, professionals, and retirees.
Schools in Lancaster Green
The presence of high-quality schools makes Lancaster Green especially appealing to families. One of the main draws is École Barrie Wilson Elementary School (K-5), located right in the heart of the community. The school provides dual-track programming with both English and French immersion, meeting the needs of families who prioritize bilingual education. Beyond academics, Barrie Wilson offers a wide variety of extracurricular programs, including choir, basketball, and environmental clubs, promoting both academic achievement and personal development.
For older students, St. Francis of Assisi Middle School (Grades 6-9) is a short distance away. This Catholic school has a reputation for academic excellence and offers specialized programs such as sports academies and fine arts options. The school is known for nurturing students’ leadership skills through clubs and volunteer initiatives, such as the Builders Club and community outreach events.
Hunting Hills High School, which serves students in grades 10-12, is nearby and provides students with a wide range of learning opportunities, from Advanced Placement (AP) courses to dual-credit programs in trades and technology. The school also has an active athletic program, with sports teams in football, volleyball, and track and field. In addition to academics, the school offers numerous clubs, ranging from robotics to theater, ensuring every student can explore their interests.
Parks and Green Spaces
Lancaster Green boasts a variety of parks and open spaces, making outdoor recreation a daily part of life for its residents. Lindsay Thurber Park is a well-maintained green space at the center of the community, featuring a large playground, open fields, and a paved walking path. Families frequent this park for picnics and playdates, and during the warmer months, it serves as a gathering point for community events such as outdoor movie nights.
Collicutt Park, located just a few blocks away, provides access to soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and a tobogganing hill, making it an all-season destination for active families. Residents also take advantage of Waskasoo Park’s trails, which wind through Red Deer’s greenbelt and connect to nearby neighborhoods. These trails are popular for cycling, jogging, and rollerblading in the summer, and in winter, they become scenic routes for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Outdoor skating rinks are another feature of the area, where kids and adults enjoy hockey games or casual skates in the winter. These public rinks foster a sense of camaraderie and are a cherished winter tradition for Lancaster Green residents.
Churches and Places of Worship
The spiritual community in Lancaster Green is vibrant and diverse, with several churches nearby that offer a variety of services and activities. St. Mary’s Catholic Church, located a few minutes from the neighborhood, provides a range of programs for individuals and families, including mass services, youth groups, and charitable outreach efforts such as food drives.
For those of other faiths, Deer Park Alliance Church offers contemporary worship services, Bible study groups, and family-friendly events, such as community BBQs and seasonal festivals. CrossRoads Church, one of the largest congregations in Red Deer, is also nearby and serves as both a place of worship and a community hub, hosting events like sports camps, parenting workshops, and volunteer initiatives.
These churches, along with other local places of worship, play a central role in fostering social connections and giving back to the wider community.
Types of Homes in Lancaster Green
Lancaster Green offers a diverse range of housing options to accommodate different lifestyles and life stages. The neighborhood primarily consists of single-family homes built in the early 2000s. These homes often feature open-concept layouts, large yards, and attached double garages, making them ideal for families with children. Mature trees and landscaped streets give the area a warm and welcoming feel.
In addition to detached homes, Lancaster Green also offers townhomes and duplexes. These properties provide more affordable options for young professionals, first-time homeowners, and retirees. Many of these units include private patios or small backyards, offering a low-maintenance alternative without sacrificing outdoor space.
Apartments and rental units are available along the edges of the neighborhood, appealing to individuals seeking convenience and modern amenities. These buildings typically feature secure access, fitness centers, and underground parking, adding to their appeal for those looking for low-maintenance living.
Recreational Facilities and Special Amenities
Lancaster Green residents benefit from their proximity to one of Red Deer’s most beloved recreational facilities, the Collicutt Centre. This large indoor complex offers something for everyone, including:
A swimming pool with water slides and a lazy river.
A full fitness gym with weights and cardio equipment.
An indoor climbing wall.
Multiple sports courts for basketball, volleyball, and badminton.
The Collicutt Centre also offers classes for all ages, including yoga, aquafit, and martial arts. It’s a popular spot for families, especially during the winter months, when it provides an escape from the cold.
The neighborhood is also close to River Bend Golf & Recreation Area, where residents can enjoy an 18-hole championship golf course, picnic areas, and hiking trails along the Red Deer River. Golf enthusiasts appreciate the well-maintained course, while others take advantage of the nearby river for kayaking and fishing during the summer.
Community Spirit and Events
Lancaster Green is known for its strong sense of community, with active involvement from residents in neighborhood events and initiatives. The Lancaster Green Community Association organizes a range of events throughout the year, including:
Block parties during the summer, complete with BBQs and live music.
Holiday celebrations such as Christmas light tours and Easter egg hunts.
Community garage sales that draw participation from across the neighborhood.
Residents also take part in local volunteer efforts, such as neighborhood clean-up days and fundraisers for local charities. These events foster friendships and build a sense of belonging among Lancaster Green’s residents, contributing to the neighborhood’s reputation as a safe and welcoming place to live.
A Convenient and Well-Connected Location
Lancaster Green offers easy access to essential services and amenities, enhancing the everyday convenience of its residents. The East Hill Shopping Centre is just minutes away and features a variety of stores, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and specialty shops. Restaurants, cafes, and fitness studios in the area add to the neighborhood’s appeal.
The neighborhood is also well-served by public transit, with several bus routes providing connections to downtown Red Deer and other parts of the city. For those who drive, Lancaster Green’s location offers easy access to major roads, including 30 Avenue and 19 Street, making commutes to the Red Deer Regional Hospital or Red Deer Polytechnic quick and convenient.
Conclusion: Lancaster Green in 2024
Lancaster Green offers a dynamic mix of recreation, education, and community spirit, making it an excellent place to live in 2024. With its top-tier schools, abundant parks, diverse housing options, and access to premier recreational facilities like the Collicutt Centre, the neighborhood appeals to residents of all ages and stages of life. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly community or a peaceful retreat, Lancaster Green delivers the perfect blend of convenience and charm.