Dec 13 2005
In a unique and ingenious move to address housing shortages in London, CIOB reports that eight red double decker buses have been revamped to provide alternative housing solutions in the capital.
Double Decker Living, a London-based company said the idea was prompted by the phasing out of London’s distinctive red Routemaster hop-on, hop-off buses. The buses have been fitted with kitchens, bathrooms and living space to accommodate up to five people. Complete with solar panels and recycling bins, the buses are being loaned to a homeless charity over the Christmas period, but the company aims eventually to provide alternative housing for key workers such as NHS staff on call as well as the homeless. Centrepoint charity for young homeless people will use the buses as teaching venues for life skills classes, covering topics such as cooking and interview preparation.
“The double decker is such an iconic London image, we wanted to see what we could do with it," said Jason Hart of Double Decker Living. “Everyone I speak to laughs because it sounds so strange but once they see it for themselves, they become very enthusiastic about the idea.”
Although the first refitted buses, due to be launched on 19th December, will be Leyland Olympian double deckers, plans are underway for a Routemaster version.