London city officials have proposed the establishment of a new temporary homeless shelter capable of accommodating up to 60 individuals in a field south of Hwy. 401, currently utilized for agricultural purposes. The suggested site, located at 1710 Wilton Grove Rd., meets various criteria for constructing mini modular homes, with plans to open by the end of December, according to a report revealed recently.
The city-owned property is deemed suitable for immediate development, situated over 400 meters away from educational institutions and childcare facilities, outside flood-prone areas, and expected to have minimal impact on nearby commercial and residential zones. The area is accessible via a two-lane road with an 80 km/hr speed limit, featuring a designated bike lane and neighboring farmers.
Mayor Josh Morgan invoked his authority in late September to fast-track the staff’s investigation without requiring a council majority vote. The proposal is now set for council review, including the site selection, at a meeting on Wednesday.
The initiative aims to provide essential shelter for homeless individuals, particularly during the harsh winter months when many are forced to seek refuge on the streets in downtown and Old East Village due to the lack of alternatives. The modular housing project is anticipated to operate until April 2027, with an estimated cost of $7 million for construction and operation, to be covered by the city’s contingency reserve fund. An expedited tender process is recommended to promptly commence the project.
The micro-modular shelters are designed to be compact, foundation-free structures under 10 square meters, equipped with heating, air conditioning, accessibility features, easy maintenance, and essential utilities. Other provisions include outdoor spaces for pets, units suitable for couples, recovery facilities, and 24-hour security services.
Mayor Morgan emphasized that the shelters are intended as a temporary solution, serving as a stepping stone towards securing permanent housing for the occupants. The proposed site’s location near the city’s outskirts presents challenges in terms of public transportation access, with limited bus services available along Wilton Grove Road.
The project’s success will rely on securing approval from the Ministry of Transportation due to its proximity to Hwy. 401, as well as engaging an experienced service provider to manage the site once construction is complete. The ultimate goal is to transition residents towards stable housing arrangements, fostering a supportive environment conducive to their well-being and future prospects.
