Southwark Council is set to review its approach to play space planning, with the Environment, Community Safety and Engagement Scrutiny Commission scheduled to discuss the matter at its meeting on Wednesday, 26 November 2025. The review aims to assess the current state of play spaces in the borough and identify areas for improvement, taking into account the needs of residents.
The Play Space Scrutiny Review will encompass various aspects, including planning and regeneration, housing, environment, sustainability, and leisure. As part of this, the review will consider how regeneration schemes contribute to the provision and upgrades of playgrounds.
According to the agenda, an officer report will provide an update on the Open Space Needs Assessment, suggesting that community needs related to open spaces, including play spaces, are being assessed. A briefing report on spending and service provision by Housing and Environment, Sustainability & Leisure Directorates will also be presented to facilitate comparison and inform the review. This report will provide insight into the current budget allocated to play space maintenance and development in Southwark.
The meeting is scheduled for 7:00 pm at 160 Tooley Street, London SE1 2QH.
Attendees include Councillor Esme Hicks, Councillor Graham Neale, Councillor Sabina Emmanuel (The Deputy Mayor of Southwark), Councillor Hamish McCallum, Councillor David Parton (Labour and Co-operative), Councillor Leo Pollak, and Julie Timbrell.