Richmond BC appeals Cowichan Tribes land title ruling

The City of Richmond is appealing a recent B.C. Supreme Court decision that granted the Cowichan Tribes Aboriginal title to more than 700 acres of land within the city.

In August, the court ruled the Cowichan Tribes hold Aboriginal title to roughly 732 acres of land in south and east Richmond. The area lies next to the south arm of the Fraser River where the nation historically fished for salmon, but "has been disrupted."

The land in discussion is currently occupied by the City of Richmond, the Crown and several other private properties, including the Country Meadows Golf Course.

Justice Barbara Young said in her ruling that the Cowichan Tribes did not seek to challenge private land titles, but only those owned by the Crown and the city.

In response, the City of Richmond has filed a