The Tsawwassen First Nation has rejected plans to build an LNG export facility just north of the B.C. Ferries terminal.

In a vote on Wednesday night, 53 per cent said 'no' to allowing the 32-hectare project on the nation's traditional land.

"What would you rather have, more money or a better environment?" asked Tsawwassen First Nation member Nick Gurniak. "No need to do more damage to the environment than has already been done."

The proposed LNG facility has been a contentious issue for the 430 band members, 139 of which cast a ballot.

Tsawwassen First Nation member Nick Gurniak says he voted against the LNG project because the environment is more important to him than money. (CBC)

It was expected to produce between three million and five million metric tonnes of LNG per year, and would have resulted in four to five LNG tankers travelling from the facility per month.

The proposed Tsawwassen facility would have consisted of storage tanks, liquefaction units, and a power substation. A pipeline to the marine terminal at nearby Robert Banks would also have to be built.

The project promised 1,000 jobs during the construction phase, and 50 to 100 permanent, well-paying jobs during operations, according to proponents.