Four First Nations complete historic purchase of former Plateau Sawmill

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The partnership marks the first time neighbouring First Nations have collaborated on a large-scale industrial property acquisition of this kind.

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Leaders from the four Nations say the project represents a significant step toward economic self-determination and a practical example of economic reconciliation in action.

“This is a transformational moment for our Nation,” said Chief Robert Michell of Stellat’en First Nation.

“By acquiring this strategic industrial asset, we are creating a platform for long-term economic growth, strengthening our self-determination, and ensuring that our Nation has a meaningful role in shaping the future of our regional economy.”

Strategic Location for Future Development

The newly created industrial park offers several advantages for prospective tenants and industrial projects, including access to electricity, transportation infrastructure and a regional workforce.

The announcement notes that the site has highway access, rail access and the ability to support industrial operators requiring significant electrical capacity.

A major element of the project is an immediate lease agreement with BC Hydro.

Under the arrangement, BC Hydro will assume a four-year lease on portions of the property to support Phase 1 of the North Coast Transmission Line (NCTL) project. The site is expected to be used for worker accommodations, equipment laydown areas and related construction activities.

The partnership says the industrial park will also be positioned to attract additional businesses and investment opportunities in the years ahead.

Economic Reconciliation Through Ownership

The acquisition comes amid growing efforts across Canada to increase Indigenous participation and ownership in major economic projects.

Leaders from the four Nations emphasized that the purchase goes beyond a real estate transaction and represents a new approach to economic development that places First Nations in leadership roles.

“Our communities have been locked out of industrial activity over many decades, and we expect new industrial growth to include us, as well as align with our values and relationships with our territories,” said Chief Beverly Ketlo of Nadleh Whut’en First Nation.

“Our four First Nations hold a shared vision for the future.”

Chief Priscilla Mueller of Saik’uz First Nation said the investment reflects a commitment to supporting the region as economic conditions continue to evolve.

“This ownership move elevates our ongoing commitment to support our shifting regional economy within this province,” Mueller said.

“As business leaders, we will continue to work with our surrounding communities to realize the full potential of the Ncha Koh Industrial Park site with our neighboring Nations.”

Benefits Expected Across the Region

The Nations say the industrial park is expected to generate employment, support skills development and create economic opportunities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents.

In addition to supporting local jobs, the project is anticipated to contribute to municipal, provincial and federal tax revenues through future industrial activity and business development.

Leaders say the site’s existing infrastructure, combined with its strategic location and transportation connections, provides a strong foundation for future investment.

For Lheidli T’enneh First Nation Chief Dolleen Logan, the partnership demonstrates what can be accomplished when Indigenous communities work together toward common goals.

“When First Nations work together — particularly through economic opportunities — we become stronger as nations and communities,” Logan said.

“We believe in building economic resilience through revenue generation and strategic partnerships that grow the communities in which we reside. We will continue to build for the future of our communities.”

Public Announcement Planned

An official announcement and site event is planned at the former Plateau property, where leaders will provide additional details about the acquisition and future plans for the industrial park.

The event is expected to include representatives from the four partner Nations as well as invited dignitaries and stakeholders.

For the communities involved, the acquisition represents more than ownership of a former industrial site. It establishes a new model of collaboration and economic development led by First Nations working together to shape the future of central British Columbia.

As the Ncha Koh Industrial Park begins operations, its partners say the focus will be on creating long-term economic opportunities that benefit local communities while supporting regional growth for generations to come.