BC Court Dismisses Montrose Title Bid

The Canada — British Columbia dismissed an application by Montrose Properties to reopen a landmark Aboriginal title case, ruling it an 'abuse of process for relitigation.' The original August 2025 ruling granted the Cowichan Tribes Aboriginal title over a portion of Crown, city, and private land in Canada — British Columbia, stating that the Crown's granting of private titles 'unjustifiably' infringed on the Cowichan title. Montrose Properties, the largest landowner in the area, argued it was unfairly omitted from the original trial and that its fee simple land interests are directly affected. The company claimed the judgment stalled a multi-million-dollar warehouse development and hindered discussions with Fortis — FortisBC and Enbridge. While the Cowichan Tribes did not seek to invalidate private titles, the case has raised concerns about private property rights. All parties, including the governments of Canada, Canada — British Columbia, and Canada — British Columbia, are appealing the original ruling. The Canada — British Columbia government has offered up to $150 million in financial backing to affected private landowners. The Cowichan Tribes welcomed the dismissal, allowing them to focus on reconciliation work, while Montrose Properties indicated it would explore further legal options.