canal bosses are hoping to create one of Glasgow's most desirable residence by turning Speirs Wharf into a floating village.

After trial schemes in Edinburgh and Inverness, Glasgow is the latest city to offer residential moorings for barges or boats on its canal.

Scottish Canals has freed up five berths on the Forth and Clyde Canal at Port Dundas and it is due to auction the moorings on eBay.

Markus Kroner, estates manager for Scottish Canals, said: "The launch of Living On Water in Glasgow is an exciting step.

"Since we launched the campaign in September we have had a terrific response, not just from those who already own a boat choosing to live on board, but from people who are new to the water.

"Speirs Wharf is a great city location, so we expect a similar response.

"Standing here you can feel a million miles away from the city centre but it is only a 15-minute walk away."

Canal bosses said the quirky homes attract a host of residents, from high-flying business people to students, retirees and also young families.

The homes are being touted as a cheap way to live, with mooring fees of about £2000 for a three-year lease, £145 for a Scottish Canal Licence and no council tax.

There are eight berths at Speirs Wharf and five will go under the hammer soon.

Houseboats are already popular in Ireland, Holland and Scandinavia and Scottish Canals thinks the alternative lifestyle will take off in Glasgow.

For more info, see: www. livingonwater.co.uk

catriona.stewart@ eveningtimes.co.uk