Work continues to advance on London’s Micro-Modular Shelter, with construction progressing and operational planning underway.

Construction and Site Readiness

Site preparation and servicing work are moving forward as planned. Current activities include site servicing, placement of fill, installation of hydro poles, and construction of the commercial electrical service and electrical room.

Beginning the week of December 22, the first micro-modular cabins are scheduled to be delivered to the site, alongside continued electrical work. While these units will not be move-in ready upon arrival, placement and servicing connections can begin once they are on site.

During the week of January 5, support trailers will be delivered, road paving will occur, and water, sewer, and electrical connections will begin. Utility connections are expected to continue into the week of January 12.

Subject to final site readiness, move-in remains on track for mid-January 2026.

Operator Readiness

Xpera, the selected site operator, has begun onboarding and training staff. The proposed staffing model includes 24/7 on-site coverage with personal support workers, participant support staff, administrative support, and security.

As the site operator, Xpera is committed to providing a compassionate, supportive approach that prioritizes dignity, respect, and safety for all participants. Additional training is being arranged for the site operator and all site staff.

Participant Matching and System Integration

The City of London continues to work with the Coordinated Access Working Group to advance participant referrals and matching. Homeless-serving agencies are actively submitting referrals for adults (18+) who are currently living unsheltered.

Over the coming weeks, Coordinated Access will begin conversations with individuals about potential move-in. Matching decisions will consider individual needs, existing supports, pets, mobility considerations, and site capacity, with a focus on stability and readiness for this setting.

Policy Development and Agency Feedback

An operational planning meeting was held with homeless-serving agencies, City of London staff, and Xpera staff on December 18. The session focused on introducing the site operator, reviewing draft operational procedures and gathering feedback on important methods of supporting vulnerable individuals at the site.

Key themes from the discussion included balancing safety and dignity, supporting trauma-informed practice, and aligning policies with existing community standards.

Feedback addressed topics such as the respectful handling and storage of personal belongings, planned and unplanned absences, cabin occupancy and safety considerations, food services and the role of communal spaces in daily engagement, pet inclusion and animal welfare requirements, and staff safety measures to support safe and effective on-site operations.

This discussion was an important step in shared learning and helped inform where additional consultation and refinement are needed as planning continues.

Next Steps

Construction and site servicing will continue through late December and early January. Participant matching and move-in planning will continue in coordination with community agencies.