(Quw’utsun Territory, B.C.) – Cowichan Tribes has added much needed land and facilities infrastructure to its inventory to support essential services for its citizens. With the official handover from the Municipality of North Cowichan at a special ceremony today, Cowichan Tribes is pleased to take ownership of the 1.15 hectare (2.89 acre) property at 6060 Canada Avenue at a purchase price of $1.2 million. The site will be used for Cowichan Tribes’ public works and emergency services departments. This central location will accommodate the growth of the two departments into the future, as well as provide secure storage for vehicles, equipment, and other assets.
The building was constructed in 1980 and previously served as the home of the North Cowichan Duncan RCMP. The detachment has since moved to a new, much larger building on Ford Road that officially opened in June 2024. The transfer includes a covenant being registered on title to protect Bings Creek from future development, while permitting North Cowichan to conduct restoration and maintenance work as required. Work to restore a portion of the north channel of Bings Creek is planned for 2025. A 2.6 metre parcel at the front of the property is not included in the sale as this land will be used to support the upcoming construction of an active transportation project along Canada Avenue.
Cowichan Tribes Emergency Services provides essential services to protect the lives of citizens, property, and the environment. Staff prepare for and respond to a variety of natural disasters and emergency events, as well as reduce risks through prevention, mitigation, and public education initiatives. The department is actively involved in flood, fire, environmental spills and hazardous materials, search and rescue, Emergency Support Services, and other emergency response activities.
Cowichan Tribes looks forward to hosting a grand opening celebration BBQ in the spring, once the departments have moved and settled in.
