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Parks and open spaces

The Council is moving forward with our ambitious programme of investment in our parks and playgrounds across the borough, designed to improve the quality, accessibility and long-term sustainability of our important community spaces.

Many of the Borough’s playgrounds were installed or refurbished within similar time periods and are now reaching the end of their lifespan.

Because of this, a more phased approach to refurbishment works is taking place to stagger future replacement cycles, maintain higher-quality facilities over time and ensure investment is sustainable in the long term.

Photo of The Dell park in Crayford

The latest improvements will include:

  • The Dell, Crayford
  • Parish Wood, Sidcup
  • West Heath Recreation Ground, Bexleyheath
  • Russell Park, Bexleyheath

Further locations will follow as the programme develops.

As part of the improvement work, the Council has been engaging with residents and park users to help shape future designs and priorities.

The recent public consultation for The Dell playground received over 360 responses.

Residents highlighted clear priorities including:

  • modern and inclusive play equipment
  • safer and more durable surfacing
  • improved accessibility for children of all abilities
  • more adventurous play opportunities for older children
  • additional seating and social spaces for families and carers

The information gathered through the consultation will help inform both the refurbishment of The Dell and future playground improvement works across the wider programme.

The Council is now progressing procurement and design work, with timelines continuing to evolve as projects move through consultation, procurement and delivery stages. Residents will continue to be engaged and updated throughout the process.

Cabinet Member for Environment, Culture and Leisure, Cllr Rags Sandhu said:

This investment shows our commitment to providing modern, sustainable play areas for families, children and young people. 

The Dell project is particularly significant as the playground celebrates its 90th anniversary on 1 August this year, providing an opportunity to deliver meaningful reinvestment into a much-loved community facility for future generations.

Bexley's Got Parks

Bexley’s Got Parks is our new campaign celebrating the parks and green spaces right on our doorstep.

We want to hear from residents about the woodlands, playgrounds and gardens they cherish to help us showcase the very best of Bexley’s natural environment.

 

Danson House overlooking the lake at Danson Park

From peaceful meadows and small neighbourhood grassed areas to vast, ancient woodlands and vibrant parks perfect for picnics and play, our Borough is home to a diverse range of outdoor spaces.

Whether you prefer a quiet stroll, visiting major landmarks, or playing a match on our newly refurbished tennis courts, there is something for everyone.

Cabinet Member for Environment, Culture and Leisure, Cllr Rags Sandhu said:

We are incredibly lucky to have such diverse outdoor spaces right on our doorstep. Thinking local and spending time outdoors helps to keep our communities healthy and vibrant.

This campaign is all about celebrating the unique natural beauty that makes Bexley such a special place to live. Get involved, share your hidden gems and let’s show everyone why Bexley’s Got Parks.

Take our quick survey online on the AskBexley website to vote for your favourites and nominate Bexley’s overall top park. Winners will be celebrated across our social media channels.