Micro-Modular Shelter Project

London, like many cities across Canada, is facing significant challenges related to housing affordability and homelessness. Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated effort between all levels of government and community partners. These challenges are not unique to London but reflect broader systemic issues across Canada.

The City of London’s long-term goal is to increase access to supportive, affordable, permanent housing. While that work continues to advance, many people experiencing homelessness need immediate help. In response, the City is developing a micro-modular shelter site at 1710 Wilton Grove Road as an additional measure beyond the services already in place that provide housing and support to vulnerable individuals.

The site will offer up to 60 private units, with 24/7 staffing, on-site mental health and housing supports, and access to essential services for residents, including couples and people with pets.

The project was endorsed by City Council on October 14, 2025. It follows a Mayoral Direction that sets a goal to implement the site by December 31, 2025. The site will operate for up to two years, until the spring of 2027.

About 1710 Wilton Grove Road

The Wilton Grove Road property was selected as the micro-modular shelter site because it is City-owned, away from residential neighbourhoods, and has access to water, sewer, and hydro services. The site is large enough for emergency access and has already passed environmental and archaeological reviews.

Once open, the site will feature micro-modular shelter units along with shared facilities such as washrooms, showers, laundry, food service areas, office space, outdoor common space, storage, and staff parking.

Each unit will be under ten square metres and will be durable, accessible, and climate-controlled. The site design will also consider outdoor common areas and dedicated spaces for couples, pet owners, and individuals seeking recovery or abstinence.

The City is directly overseeing the planning, permitting, construction, and operation of this project.

Construction at 1710 Wilton Grove Road

The project includes the installation of a new sanitary private drain connection and water service. This requires the removal and restoration of the existing road surface, curbs, and gutters at the intersection of Max Brose Drive and Cheese Factory Road. Construction is expected to begin in early December and will take approximately three weeks to complete.

To complete the work as efficiently as possible, the intersection of Max Brose Road and Cheese Factory Road will be closed during construction. In addition, a temporary “No Stopping” zone will be in place on Commerce Road, north of Max Brose Drive, to allow London Transit (LTC) buses to safely turn around during the closure. Signage will be posted and enforcement will take place throughout construction.

LTC Route 30 will be temporarily detoured during construction, with a temporary turnaround in place on Commerce Court. Transit users are advised to visit the London Transit Commission website for the most up-to-date information.

Safety and security

Safety remains the City’s top priority — for both shelter residents and the surrounding community.

The site will feature 24-hour on-site staffing and security, controlled entry points with monitored access, fencing and lighting around the shelter area, and clearly defined emergency routes for first responders.

The City will work closely with the London Police Service, London Fire Department, and Middlesex-London Paramedic Service to ensure coordinated safety planning, monitoring, and response throughout the operation of the site.