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Largest Richmond Landowner Moves to Reopen Aboriginal Title Case

The rare bid follows an August ruling that recognized Cowichan Tribes' title over private parcels, with enforcement suspended for 18 months.

Overview

  • Montrose Properties says it will ask the B.C. Supreme Court to reopen the case, arguing it should have been a party to litigation that affects its holdings.
  • The company reports ownership of about 120 hectares within the approximately 300-hectare area, including a Coca-Cola bottling plant and a Canadian Tire depot.
  • B.C. Attorney-General Niki Sharma will seek a stay of Justice Barbara Young’s decision while multiple appeals proceed, pointing to the absence of private owners in the case.
  • The judge declined to require formal notice to affected homeowners, and the court’s declarations were suspended for 18 months to allow arrangements.
  • Property owners are preparing assessment and tax appeals as major developers, lenders and insurers question marketability, valuation and governance over the lands.