Image Credit: CFJC Today / File

By Dave Barry

Merritt Gateway

Province to complete land transfer to Nicola Valley First Nations

Sep 18, 2020 | 11:37 AM

MERRITT, B.C. — Nicola Valley First Nations will be receiving 11 hectares of land from the provincial government as part of a promise made a year and a half ago.

In a news release, the government says the land will be transferred to Spayum Holdings, a development corporation which is owned by five First Nations.

Spayum is planning to pour $40 million into a project that is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs. The plan will also lead to the reopening of the Merritt Gateway rest stop for travellers along the Coquihalla Highway. Previously, the site was home to the Merritt tourism information centre. It was closed in January, 2018.

“Supporting the Nicola Chiefs in this important business opportunity will benefit residents and visitors to the Nicola Valley, and is a positive example of our government’s efforts to advance reconciliation with the Nicola Valley First Nations through new economic development opportunities,” said Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation.

The Coldwater Indian Band, Lower Nicola Indian Band, Nooaitch Indian Band, Shackan Indian Band and Upper Nicola Indian Band make up Spayum Holding. Member First Nations had sought the transfer of the Gateway land for more than two decades.

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B.C. Premier John Horgan signed a letter of commitment to work collaboratively with the Nicola Valley First Nations on economic development, including transferring the Gateway 286 lands, in March 2019. The land transfer process underwent a public consultation process and consultation with neighbouring First Nations.