Hundreds of electric car charging points are to be installed at lampposts across Hounslow.

The borough has been chosen to host a trial scheme, which it is hoped will encourage more motorists to switch to electric vehicles.

Drivers will be able to charge their vehicles on the street using the new sockets, making electric cars more practical for those without driveways.

It is one of a raft of new green initiatives across the capital to receive a share of the latest £5m cash injection from the Mayor of London's £20m Air Quality Fund.

Other schemes receiving funding include:

  • A new cycle bypass and other "greening" improvements at the approach to Putney Bridge, in Hammersmith & Fulham
  • A project to work with Business Improvement Districts in Ealing to help firms reduce deliveries, pollution and costs
  • A "no-idling" initiative to get drivers to swicth off their engines while waiting for Tower Bridge to close.

London mayor Boris Johnson also announced plans to award £1m to at least two flagship "Low Emission Neighbourhoods" in the capital.

Westminster and Hammersmith & Fulham councils are among nine boroughs vying for the cash to promote walking and cycling and to improve air quality.

Mr Johnson said: "Protecting the well-being of Londoners is vital and these great projects, coupled with my plans for the world's first Ultra-Low Emission Zone in 2020, are part of the bold measures we need, along with the strong support of the Government and the EU, to win London’s pollution battle."

Nearly 9,500 people are estimated to die prematurely each year in the capital due to poor air quality.

London mayoral hopeful Caroline Pidgeon recently vowed to introduce a Heathrow congestion charge zone if elected, as part of wider efforts to tackle air pollution.