Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN BIDDULPH – Joy Birch, president of Highview Residence’s, presented plans to redevelop the property at 139 Main St. into a private housing community that would combine dementia care, retirement living and supported independent living for adults with developmental disabilities or neurodiversity.
Birch said Highview has operated since 2003 and currently runs two homes in London and two in Kitchener. The company has traditionally focused on dementia care, but the Lucan project would expand that model to support residents with a wider range of needs.
The company took possession of the building in early March and began renovations right away.
Birch said the site currently has 55 suites. Four suites are being removed to create a secure dementia-care area on the second floor. The first and third floors are planned for seniors’ retirement living and supported housing. She said the completed building is expected to open in mid-July, with between 51 and 53 suites in three different layouts.
Birch said Highview’s approach is to build support into daily life rather than around strict schedules. Instead of a fixed routine for every resident, support would be based on each person’s own habits, preferences and abilities.
She said some residents may prefer an early start to the day, while others may want a slower morning routine. Staff would work around those needs rather than expecting everyone to follow the same schedule. Birch described the model as helping residents “do with, not do for,” with the goal of maintaining independence wherever possible while still providing support. She said the project was shaped in part by long wait-lists for dementia care and publicly funded developmental housing.
Families in the region, Birch said, often struggle to find housing options that feel personal and home-like. Particularly for adults who do not fit traditional care models. Highview has also tried to use local contractors, trades and suppliers during the renovation process. Birch said the company wants to become part of the community and create a place that feels open, welcoming and connected. She also outlined a longer-term vision for the 1.44-acre property.
Over the next five years, Highview hopes to remove two neighbouring houses beside the main building and replace them with seven or eight semi-detached tiny homes. Birch said those units could be used by couples or residents who want more privacy or greater independence while still having access to support services nearby. She described the concept as a small village connected to the main residence.
