Residents and visitors can now enjoy free outdoor cooking facilities at Burgess Park, thanks to an exciting trial launched by Southwark Council.
The council has installed electric hotplates in the park, ideal for outdoor grilling, following the demolition of the charcoal BBQs which contributed to an increased fire risk and litter in the park. The trial will be used to determine the long-term feasibility of the facilities.
As part of its commitment to tackling climate change, Southwark Council has also banned gas, wood and charcoal BBQs in all parks across the borough.
Recognising the community’s strong affection for the previous charcoal barbecue area, We Walworth and Latin Elephant – community groups collaborated Southwark Council to redesign and relocate the facility. Feedback was gleaned from over 700 conversations with residents, and the findings were presented at the Faraday Ward Forum meeting in 2022 to ensure the new cooking area meets the needs and expectations of all users.
The previous charcoal barbecues at Burgess Park have been a favourite gathering spot for local residents, providing a place for families, friends, and community groups to enjoy outdoor cooking and socialising.
Valerie Rosa, from Latin Elephant, said: 'It has been a lot of work through the years to make this project happen. We are happy that the trial period for the hot plates is finally here. We hope that the members of the communities surrounding Burgess Parks are able to enjoy what has become a privilege for many, having an outdoor eating area.”
Following this Southwark Council continued to collaborate with community members and local organisations Latin Elephant, Pembroke House and Inspire, to redesign and relocate the facility.
The new, electricity-powered cooking area was built by local builders P D Construction Ltd who are based in Dulwich.
Councillor Portia Mwangangye, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks and Young People, said: “We are thrilled to open a brand new trial outdoor cooking facility, as cooking has been at the heart of many community gatherings over the years. The improvements we’ve implemented not only address the environmental and safety concerns that led to its removal from the park but also ensure that the new cooking area is a safe, sustainable space for everyone to enjoy.
“I want to thank We Walworth and Latin Elephant for their valuable input throughout this process. Their involvement has been crucial in bringing the community along this journey. As always, we remind everyone to use the space responsibly, dispose of waste properly, and adhere to any posted safety guidelines”.
The electric hotplates can be used every day until 27 October. Opening hours are from 10am to 7pm in October.
During the trial, community members and council officers will be monitoring the cooking area to determine whether it is a success.
For more information about the trial, please visit www.southwark.gov.uk/outdoorcooking