The borough’s newest green space in Elephant and Castle will be closed from Monday until November while Lendlease continues construction on the regeneration project on the site of the former Heygate Estate.
The developer says it can only progress with the second phase of the park safely while the existing section is cordoned off to the public.
A statement posted online, explained: “We recognise that closing the park is not ideal at this time, so please be aware we have not taken this decision lightly.
“It has always been part of our plan to deliver the remainder of the park in line with the completion of the third phase of the project, which is currently under construction on New Kent Road, and is due to begin completing at the end of this year.
“In order to achieve this, we now need to commence work on the park.
“We’re aiming to get the work done as quickly as possible so that we can open the new and improved park by the end of this year, as well as a new street – Ash Avenue – which will bring many new retailers and restaurants to the area.”
The temporary meadow on Deacon Street will remain open but those looking for free space will have to travel further afield to either Burgess, Southwark or Kennington Parks.
The full park is due to be completed in 2022.