Parks and open spaces across the borough will be looked after by six specialist contractors.

Richmond Council scrapped the single contract that previously provided all the services to maintain parks in favour of the new deal, which it said would be better value for money.

Continental Landscapes will be responsible for grass cutting, hedge trimming and planting, play, paths, and sports bookings.

Gristwood and Toms will look after tree works and tree planting, Bartletts will do surveying, spraying and oak processionary moth control and Glendale will oversee conservation projects.

Will to Win will look after tennis courts and coaching and the Event Umbrella will be responsible for event related administration and delivery.

The new contracts were signed by all the new participants at an event in York House, Twickenham, on Tuesday, April 2.

Cabinet member for the environment Councillor Virginia Morris said: “In the current economic climate we must make sure that we are getting value for money from all our providers, while at the same time ensuring that the excellent standards that our residents expect and want continue.

“So, rather than having one provider performing services, in a one-size-fits-all approach, we are moving this year to a range of proven specialist providers, who excel in their various areas, following a robust tendering process.”