A longstanding policy prohibiting the handling of bulk liquids at Roberts Bank has emerged as a potential obstacle to the proposed new West Coast oil export terminal backed by the federal and Alberta governments. The restriction, established following environmental reviews in 1979 and reaffirmed in 1996, remains in effect under the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. Environmental experts note that lifting the prohibition would likely require a comprehensive environmental assessment and public review. Questions also remain regarding the site’s capacity and environmental suitability for an oil terminal, particularly given existing port infrastructure and ecological sensitivities. The proposed pipeline and terminal are currently being considered through the federal Major Projects Office.
