Plans to convert parking spaces in Hounslow into community areas with al-fresco seating, phone-charging points and leisure activities have moved a step closer.

Hounslow Council has approved a strategy to re-purpose street space monopolised by car parking bays into 'parklets' where people can meet, play board games and watch the world go by.

A report to the council's Cabinet says: "Nearly one third of our households don't have access to a vehicle, yet the kerbside remains dominated by parking. Any opportunity to allow flexibility in the use of kerbside space, other than car storage, will enable us to improve the public realm for our residents."

Community groups, organisations and local businesses can now bid to create their own community parklets, which could include planters, benches, games, notice boards, phone charging facilities or any other items that residents or businesses propose.

Under the scheme, anyone who wants a parklet must submit an application that demonstrates how they can fund, fit-out and maintain the parklet. They will also need to provide public liability insurance for the space, prove a local consultation process has taken place and that there is community support for the parklet.

Applications that meet the necessary criteria will be approved on a six-month trial period, after which each parklet will undergo a review into whether it can become a permanent fixture.

Hounslow Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate, Environment and Transport Strategy, Councillor Katherine Dunne, said: "We want to make sure that everyone in our borough can take advantage of an outdoor space. We need to reduce congestion on our borough's roads, improve air quality for everyone and rise to the challenges of climate change."

"Creating and maintaining a parklet will require hard work and commitment. We can support anyone who wants to make an application with information and guidance. These green community spaces have proved popular in other boroughs across London and across the country."