A campaign by a Peckham community group has secured £23,000 to make Kelly Avenue Park a safer place for families.
The Peckham Citizens group had spent a year surveying 1,000 residents to find out how the council could make a meaning improvement to Peckham.
The money will pay for a new pathway through the park and two new archways at its entrances, designed by children from two local schools.
The News reported last September how 120 local people worked together to clean up the park after hearing shocking stories of violence, sexual assaults, drug dealing, and gang activity.
Rose Moses, assistant Head teacher at Oliver Goldsmith Primary School, one of the schools that led the campaign, said: “We are delighted with the result – Southwark Council has really listened to the concerns of hundreds of local people.
“The children and parents involved will remember this day for years to come and now know that if they put their mind to it, they can achieve great things together.”
Councillor Barrie Hargrove, cabinet member for public health, parks and leisure, said: “If a park doesn’t feel safe for children, then it’s our duty to do something about it. I am glad to say we have found the money. We very much look forward to working with Peckham Citizens, local children and residents to make Kelly Avenue Park a fun and safe place for all to enjoy!”