Updated: Fri Nov. 20 2009 18:55:29

ctvwinnipeg.ca

Developers behind a massive retail development that includes an IKEA store held a sod-turning ceremony Friday morning.

The event at the corner of Kenaston Boulevard and Sterling Lyon Parkway marks the start of the first stage of construction for the site. Mayor Sam Katz and Premier Greg Selinger were also in attendance at the groundbreaking.

Along with IKEA, the location will house other businesses, which have yet to be named.   

Construction work could begin as early as next week. Developers say they hope to have some of the stores open by the summer or fall of 2011, but say IKEA won't open at the site for another couple of years, by 2013 at the latest.

Major roadwork near the area is also anticipated to start early next year.

- with a report from CTV's Joe Olafson