Car cleaning in Hamilton parking lots could see an upgrade after a steam-cleaning proposal got in-principle approval from the City.

Deputy Mayor Glen Smith said technical officers would have to examine the steam cleaners more closely before giving the plans the green light.

The aim is to see the environmentally-friendly service offered in long-term car parks around Hamilton, engineer Patrick Cooper told a City meeting.

The tools can clean 20 cars using just five gallons of water, he added.

Councillor John Harvey said: “I am intrigued. If this can remove vagrants, then I propose we should have this service in at least half the car parks.”

Mr Smith replied that the businessman behind the proposal had “reached out” to other car-washers, offering them the chance to work.

Motorists would be able to sign up for the service at a stand based in the car park. A diesel-powered steam machine would then be dispatched to clean their car.