North Shore Sewage Plant Independent Review Due Early 2027

Metro Vancouver Regional District has finalized an independent review of its beleaguered North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant, one of the region's most expensive capital projects ever. The review team, led by veteran infrastructure executive Rob Andrews of EXP Engineering, is expected to deliver a public report by the end of January 2027.

The $3.86-billion project, visible from Coal Harbour across Burrard Inlet, has faced mounting concerns over ballooning costs, governance, and management. The review effort was first contemplated in 2024 but was placed on hold while Metro Vancouver pursued legal action against former contractor Acciona, which the region fired for abandoning the project and performing substandard work. In May 2026, the two parties reached a legal settlement outside court, with Acciona providing a $235-million payment.

Rob Andrews brings over four decades of experience in water and wastewater infrastructure, including a previous tenure as president and CEO of the Ontario Clean Water Agency. Joining him are Gary Webster, who has advised on major projects including Vancouver Fraser Port Authority's Roberts Bank Terminal 2 expansion and California's high-speed rail project, and Ed Green, whose expertise spans cost estimation, risk analysis, and construction delivery on complex infrastructure including the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain and the George Massey Tunnel replacement.

"Our team's deep expertise in evaluating complex infrastructure projects makes us well equipped to conduct a thorough, balanced, and independent review," Andrews said. "We look forward to sharing the results of a rigorous and impartial review, with recommendations for future projects."