New housing development announced for Dresden

A new housing development, which will include more than 40 homes in its first phase, is in the works for Dresden, a developer says.

The DeMall Group announced its latest project, Rolling Acres, at an open house June 2. The group consists of Krista and Kerry Mall, and Kim and Dave Depencier,

Also on hand were Mayor Darrin Canniff, council members, MPP Monte McNaughton (PC-Lambton-Kent-Middlesex) and Chatham-Kent economic development and tourism officials.

The new subdivision will feature custom-built homes, officials said, adding Dresden is a short drive from Chatham, and close to Sarnia, London and Windsor.

“I grew up in Dresden, and I love to be able to have a hand in building up the town that raised me,” DeMall Group president Dave Depencier said in a release.

“I’ve been a custom home builder for 25 years and chose to develop subdivisions within my own small community. I’m proud to be part of the growth happening right here in my own backyard.”

The first phase will consist of 41 homes, including 24 semi-detached and 17 detached bungalow-style homes.

In the proposed second phase, the group plans to add a community park next to the development, featuring scenic walking trails, outdoor squash courts and playground equipment.

“I’m an immigrant to Canada. I had a lot of choices when I was considering a place to reside,” group treasurer Kerry Mall said.

“I found a place to call home in Dresden and love everything about it. The community has been extremely welcoming. It’s a small town with so much to offer.”

The DeMall Group was established by the Depencier and Mall families, which are active members of the Dresden community. Their goal is to build quality homes while giving back to the community.

“We grew up here and we’ve also chosen to raise our family here. My children went to the same public and high school that I did,” said marketing director Kim Depencier.

“Dresden has so much to offer for young families in terms of sports and activities, along with the safety of a small town.”

Mayor Darrin Canniff noted such investments “show growth is happening all over” Chatham-Kent.

“Developers know that choosing CK for their projects is an investment in an expanding community, one that’s on the rise,” he said. “Chatham-Kent’s communities have so much to offer, and their reputations as great places to live, work and invest are reaching a wider audience.”