Chamber supports Port Metro Vancouver's decision to approve coal transfer

The BC Chamber of Commerce supports Port Metro Vancouver’s decision to approve the proposed direct coal transfer facility at Fraser Surrey Docks.

“We support both the rigorous process that was undertaken to assess this proposal, and the decision to approve the project, which will create 50 direct and indirect local jobs plus increase B.C.’s coal-export capacity,” said John Winter, BC Chamber president and CEO. “Today’s decision, backed by a rigorous review process, is a win for the Lower Mainland economy.”

The $15 million project will create 25 direct and 25 indirect jobs. The facility will handle up to four million tonnes of coal per year, which is approximately 10% of total coal shipments through the port.

Winter noted that, responding to public interest in the project, Port Metro Vancouver required an even more comprehensive approval process than usual, including a full independent assessment of the project by environmental consultant Golder Associates Ltd.

“Given public interest, Port Metro appropriately required an even more robust approval process than usual to ensure that all health and environmental questions were carefully scrutinized,” he said. “We commend the port for its commitment to providing British Columbians with the assurances they needed to back this project.”

Winter also commended Fraser Surrey Docks for its dedication to investing in B.C.’s economy and creating jobs.

“We commend Fraser Surrey Docks for committing to this complex, two-year approval process to demonstrate that this project is sound and in the public interest,” Winter said. “We are very pleased that the company’s efforts have been rewarded with a positive outcome.”

Last year, B.C.’s Chambers passed two policies supporting B.C.’s coal industry and the expansion of coal-export infrastructure.
“Chambers across B.C. strongly support the expansion of B.C.’s export infrastructure for coal and other products,” Winter said. “With the approval of projects such as this, the port will continue to be a creator of jobs and economic opportunity.”