IAN Paton, BC United MLA for Delta South, has once again brought forward a private member’s bill to the B.C. legislature to protect the agricultural lands and crucial bird habitats of Brunswick Point against looming development pressures.

“Nestled between the ocean and the Fraser River, with stunning scenic dike walking trails, Brunswick Point is a testament to nature’s beauty,” said Paton, BC United critic for Agriculture and Food. “Not only does this land yield some of B.C.’s finest potatoes thanks to its superior Class 1 soil, it also serves as an essential haven for migratory birds from across the globe.”

For decades, Brunswick Point has been a painful struggle for Delta’s farming communities. The government’s 1968 expropriation of 4,000 acres for a coal terminal and rail line — a project that ultimately left portions of the land unused — led to a prolonged dispute. While most of the land was eventually offered for repurchase to the original owners, more than 600 acres remained in limbo, available only through short-term leases rather than rightful return.

“Ensuring the ongoing stewardship of these 600 acres by the Crown for agricultural use and as a wildlife refuge, with the option of long-term leases to local farmers, is crucial,” said Paton. “My hope is for the NDP to put aside political differences and bring this bill to the floor, allowing us to amend a longstanding grievance and secure the future of this irreplaceable area for the benefit of future generations.”