Combining multiple street cleaning tools into one, the new machines will improve the council’s Caretaking Service efficiency and effectiveness. They will be based on the larger estates, Ivybridge, Brentford Towers, Heston Farm and Highfields, but when required can be transported across the borough to service other estates.

These electric, environmentally friendly machines can clean and clear difficult areas such as pathways, ball courts, playgrounds, and other hard-to-reach places more efficiently and effectively than previous methods.

Powered by a re-chargeable battery and producing no carbon emissions, they have a far smaller carbon footprint than the petrol-operated blowers previously used – contributing to the council’s commitment to becoming net zero-carbon by 2030. The machines also include an on-board washer, enabling caretakers to remove small quantities of graffiti and cleanse the surfaces of litter bins, bin shelters and bin rooms.

Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, leader of Hounslow Council, said: ‘We are continually looking at new ways to invest in improving residents’ lives, while making further steps to becoming a net-zero Council.

‘Utilising these new machines on our estates will reduce the amount of time our teams spend manually collecting waste and litter, leaving residents with a cleaner and greener place to live.’

Cllr Sue Sampson, cabinet member for Housing and Homelessness, added: 'It’s vital we equip our dedicated team of caretakers with the tools they need to deliver a high-quality service for our residents. We know from resident feedback that cleaner estates provides a positive boost for the community, making it a more welcoming and vibrant place to live.

‘These machines are part of the council’s £300m investment in improving the quality of our council estates. We want every resident in the borough to have tremendous pride in the place where they live.’