Delta council to vote on controversial Southlands development proposal on Friday

The longest-running public battle in Canada could soon be over with Delta city councillors set to vote on the Southlands project Friday.

The use of the land has been a focus of public discussion and a source of contention for more than 30 years.

If the vote is passed the land could be developed for 950 homes on 45 hectares with other space dedicated to public farms and parks.

The land used to be in the Agricultural Land Reserve, but was pulled out in the 80’s. It is zoned agricultural but it isn’t protected land.

If the council votes ‘yes’ on Friday, the plan will then move on to a final stage of public hearings.

There have been many opponents to the development over the years.

Critics of the project are asking others to join them on Friday morning at the council meeting and to wear a red hat and placard.

The meeting starts at 9 a.m. and we will have coverage throughout the day on our website and BC1.