Alderbridge Way Limited Partnership v. Romspen Investment Corp.
Alderbridge Way Limited Partnership
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
Alderbridge Way GP Ltd.
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
0989705 B.C. Ltd.
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
Gatland Development Corporation
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
REV Holdings Ltd.
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
REV Investments Inc.
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
South Street Development Managers Ltd.
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
South Street (Alderbridge) Limited Partnership
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
Samuel David Hanson
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
Brent Taylor Hanson
Law Firm / Organization
Kornfeld LLP
Romspen Investment Corp.
Law Firm / Organization
Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
  • Background of the Case: The case involves a failed financing agreement for a significant real estate development project in Richmond, British Columbia. The development planned to construct seven towers, but Romspen ceased funding, leading to financial difficulties for the development.

  • Facts of the Case:

    • The appellants, developers of the project, had received initial construction financing from Romspen, which promised $422 million, comprising $212 million directly and $210 million from syndication.
    • By March 2020, Romspen had advanced about $169 million but then refused to provide further funds, causing the project to stall.
    • The appellants sought relief under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) in April 2022.
    • The action claims damages for breach of contract, alleging Romspen reneged on its funding commitment and did not make reasonable efforts to syndicate further funds as required by their agreement.
  • Issues/Main Discussion:

    • The core issue is whether Romspen breached its contractual obligations by ceasing funding, including an alleged breach of the duty of good faith and/or honesty in contractual performance.
    • The appellants sought production of documents related to Romspen’s funding of other projects, asserting these could prove Romspen had the capability to continue funding but chose to support other projects, violating its duty of good faith.
  • Ruling:

    • The application for leave to appeal the interlocutory order denying document production was dismissed. The court emphasized the discretionary nature of the order and the urgency of resolving claims under the CCAA.
    • The court highlighted that the critical question was whether Romspen was contractually obliged to continue funding, not whether it had the funds to do so.
    • No Amount specified for award.
Court of Appeals for British Columbia
CA49597
Corporate & commercial law
Respondent