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London population to reach 11 mln in 2050

Xinhua, February 3, 2015 Adjust font size:

There are more than 8.6 million people living in the capital city of Britain, reaching the highest level since 1939, but the figure will soar to 11 million by 2050, the Greater London Authority said Monday.

The latest population figures of London released on Monday showed that the population in London, one of the largest cities across the world, has increased by almost two million in the last 25 years.

Among the 32 boroughs across the city, the westernmost borough Hillingdon is the borough that has seen the most growth since 1939, with an increase of 82 percent, from 159,000 people to around 289,000 in 2015.

Islington, a borough which near the city center, has seen the biggest reduction in population, falling 36 percent from 343,000 residents in 1939 to 221,000 in 2015.

Statistics showed that Barnet has taken the place of Croydon to become the most populous borough in the coming months. About 400,000 people are currently living in both of these two boroughs.

The population of black and minority ethnicity origin in London accounts for 44 percent of the 8.6 million residents, reaching 3.8 million, and the proportion will grow to 50 percent by 2038.

"London's incredible population boom is testament to the fact that this is the best big city on the planet. With more green space than any other European city, a thriving economy, a low crime rate and a roaring cultural scene it is no surprise that London is the place to be," said Boris Johnson, Mayor of London.

"As our incredible city continues to grow, Londoners should rest assured that we are working tirelessly to provide the homes, water, energy, schools, transport, digital connectivity and better quality of life they expect," he added.

Boris said the government needs to grant greater fiscal devolution to London so that the key infrastructure can be funded properly.

"It is crucial that we recognise the amazing opportunities that this kind of growth can offer and step up our investment now so that London continues to be the motor of the UK economy," the mayor said. Endit