Request to Extend Environmental Assessment Certificate for Westcoast Connector Gas Transmission Pipeline Withdrawn

Enbridge has withdrawn its request to extend the environmental assessment certificate for the Westcoast Connector Gas Transmission pipeline.

Initially approved in 2014, the project aims to install up to two 48-inch pipelines and five compressor stations between Chetwynd and Prince Rupert.

It would connect with BC's existing network in the northeast then head west to the Cranberry Junction, before taking one of two proposed routes.

Thanks to the accompanying compressor stations, the pipeline would be capable of servicing multiple LNG terminals across the north.

An initial extension was already granted to the project in 2019, pushing the deadline to hit a substantial start designation to November of 2024.

But in January, a second extension request was filed, citing challenges related to the pandemic, and recent regulatory changes.

Now, the company has decided to withdraw that request, but says they are still working to achieve a substantial start by the 2024 deadline.

They say they will continue to work with Indigenous groups and stakeholders to continue developing the project.