Oxford City Council's new street-cleaning equipment was being launched today in Cornmarket Street.

The new mini-lorries will sweep and wash streets simultaneously - something that has not been possible before. This will save time, allowing city centre streets to be cleaned at least twice a week.

Councillor Mary Clarkson, the council's executive member for the environment, said: "I'm delighted to launch this new equipment. It will make a huge difference to the effectiveness of our street-cleaning programme and will benefit all the residents of Oxford, as well as creating a better impression for visitors."

Streets initially to be cleaned at least twice a week, in addition to Cornmarket, will be Queen Street, St Aldates, High Street, Broad Street and George Street.

Gradually this will expand to areas like Headington and Summertown.

The new equipment will also help in the fight to clear the city streets of discarded chewing gum.