Update as of 28 July 2026 · based on the latest project timeline circulated by Lewisham Council
July 2026 Friendly Gardens Plan of Action & Progress Update – document download here.
Phasing Update
Continuing the improvement plan initiated in July 2024, we’re moving closer to execution for selected scopes of work, now that funding has been secured. The wider vision follows a 4-phase approach, and these initial works will incorporate scope of work elements from both Phase 1, 2 and 3 at this stage, whilst further funding is being identified to complete the full scope.
Funding
Secured from Veolia and NCIL; awaiting news from Thames Water on additional funding to enable further activities to be completed, per the original design.
Confirmed Scopes of Work by Funder
SJS, Veolia & Lewisham Council – Parts of Phase 1, 2 & 3
1. New trees — started in Feb 2026
2. Rain garden (SuDs) and seating area
3. New path
4. Nature pond
5. New gate entrance
6. Planting
7. Designated ‘no mow’ area for wildflowers
SJS, Thames Water, Lewisham Council — Phase 4
1. Water fountains
2. Regrassing affected areas
3. New trees
4. Picnic benches
5. Awaiting additional funding updates
Timeline for selected scope elements
| When | Phase | Key steps |
| May–Jul | Quotes & Procurement | Secure quotes · Refine scope · Allow for delays |
| Jun–Jul | Approvals | Select contractor · Veolia approval |
| Jul–Sep | Planning & Governance (we are here) | Council approvals · Funding release · Design refinement |
| Mid Sep | Rain Garden Start | Site mobilisation · SuDS installation |
| Oct–Nov | Main Works | Seating, paths · Rendering / painting |
| Oct–Dec | Ecological Works | Planting · Pond (Froglife + community) |
| Nov–Dec | Signage & Tools | Install signage · Provide tools |
| Dec–26 | Handover | Opening · Community maintenance |
The Vision
Original Phased Plan
A reminder of the original statement of intent behind the 4-phase approach:
Phase 1 — Statement of Intent
• Focus on rejuvenating & refocusing the primary entrance areas.
• Focus on rejuvenating the old paddling pool area and the adjacent hillock.
• Creating a sense of arrival and of place.
• Creating a place where people can meet, sit, relax.
Phase 2 — Enhanced Play and Family Area
• Reorganise the central open grassed play area.
• Create more distinct & varied activity areas.
• Create a distinct delineation between the central open grassed play area and the children’s playground area.
• Relocate, reorganise & group the existing climbing frames to achieve this.
• Create a defined & controlled football playing area / pitch(es).
Phase 3 — Enhanced Play and Family Area (continued)
• Create a distinct children’s playground area.
• Introduce new pathway to separate the playground area from the central open area.
• Relocate the gate on Lucas Street to enhance the security of the playground area.
• Low fencing around the children’s play area.
• Creating a new ecological & horticultural learning & teaching area to the south of the new pathway linking Lucas Street to Friendly Street.
Phase 4 — Finalisation of Plans upon Thames Water Vacating the Site
• Thames Water to return the area to its previous state, including return of picnic benches, planting and removed trees.
• Potential to apply for future funding to create an exercise area on the vacated site.
Get Involved
The St Johns Society are looking for volunteers and fresh ideas. Whether you can help with planting, planning an event, fundraising, providing feedback on the condition of the park, or simply want to share your views, your input can make a real difference. To help us achieve further improvements, we also need volunteers to support with writing bids for additional funding — this will help ensure Friendly Gardens is ready for the next generation. Email chair@st-johns-soc.org.