A post on a developer’s website is renewing interest in the future of the former Village Biergarten site in St. Jacobs. A rendering for 1381 King Street North appears on the PMI Group’s website. Although the image does not include any details about potential units, the building appears to be at least six storeys in height. It lists the unit count for both residential and commercial spaces as “TBD.” Despite the post, the Township of Woolwich told CTV News they have not received a formal proposal for the address and could not provide further insight. CTV News reached out to PMI for comment, did not receive a response in time for publication. The lack of information has led to speculation in the community. “It’s one of those scenarios where nobody can win because if you want development and growth and sustainability, things have to change,” Dan Vandermolen, who owns CHANGE Lifestyle and Apparel across the street from the former Village Biergarten, said. Vandermolen said after Village Biergarten’s sudden closure in 2025, the property has sat largely neglected. “It was awesome when it was functioning; it was quaint and it was unique and it was wonderful, but when it stopped functioning that way, then it became just an empty lot in the middle of town,” Vandermolen said. Vandermolen says he trying to remain patient while the development process plays out. “The builder has to be accountable for what they’re doing, the township has to be accountable for what they’re doing, and that information needs to be conveyed when it’s all out there,” he said.
