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London is the largest city in Europe and the 6th richest in the world, this year the population is hit of 8.6 million, the last time it has that size was 75 years ago in 1939, the year when the second world war started.
By 2039, 1.5 million more people will be living here, taking the population to just under 10.2 million. As a consequence the house prices to rent or to let have skyrocketed and the rent for a 1-bed in London sometimes is more than what the people earn.
The London housing crisis has led to the waterways becoming an affordable housing possibility for many. During the past 10 years has been surge in demand for houseboats, more than 3000 boats are jostling for London’s 200 canal moorings.
There are few fix moorings, they are very expensive to buy, so the boaters need to move from a side to another in London every 15 days, otherwise they lose the boat licence.
For some however, living in canal boats is not only a more affordable option but it is largely driven by a desire to enjoy a more sustainable life.
Everyone who has taken part in this project confirms that although the lifestyle forces them to reduce their needs, in somewhat less comfortable environments, it is a way for them to improve their quality of life where they are able to stay in closer contact with nature.
To add to this, most of London's canals are often situated closely to some of the city's principal parks and green spaces and with the use of push bikes, it is possible to travel anywhere in the capital in less than an hour.
The waterway community is a melting pot of individuals enjoying an alternative way of living. Everyone has their own space and the same rights but the canal is the glue that keeps it all together.