London's Micro-Modular Shelter

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 the intersection of Max Brose Drive and Cheese Factory Road as an additional measure beyond the services already in place that provide housing and support to vulnerable individuals.

London’s Micro-Modular Shelter will provide safe, private housing space with 60 furnished units, each with electricity, heating, and cooling. Ten of these units will be designed for couples who want to live together.

It is anticipated that participants will have access to case management, help navigating services, and mental health and addiction supports.

The site will also have washrooms, showers, a dining area with meals provided onsite, office space, and parking. Laundry services will also be provided.

Safety features will include 24/7 staffing, safe entry measures, cameras, and lighting throughout the site. Safety of the participants, staff, and neighbouring business community are of critical importance.

The main goal is to help people stabilize, get the supports they need, and move toward permanent housing.

The project was endorsed by City Council on October 14, 2025, and follows a Mayoral Direction to develop a plan for a temporary micro-modular shelter site in London. The site will operate for up to two years, until the spring of 2027. The City is directly overseeing the planning, permitting, construction, and operation of this project

The site is expected to welcome participants in January 2026, pending completion of required site preparations. The City is finalizing the installation of shelter units and all supporting facilities, including showers, washrooms, and communal spaces, to ensure the site is fully ready for opening.

Construction at Max Brose Drive and Cheese Factory 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.