A popular Lewisham park has been forced to close at dusk due to “littering on a festival scale” and “widespread human soiling”.

Ward councillors raised concerns about anti-social behaviour taking place in Upper Park Telegraph Hill earlier this week, which they say is plagued by noise, overcrowding, broken glass, fires, and damage to trees.

Following consultation with residents, they recommended the park be shut entirely, however the Council has instead decided to close it at 8pm.

A spokesperson for the Council said: "From today, Telegraph Hill Park will close at dusk.

"To help our parks team manage at busier times, entry will be restricted from 8pm.

"We continue to work with local police who patrol regularly and additional security officers will be in place."

Councillors considered backing keeping the park open with reduced access, but dismissed the option as it "could potentially put staff at risk" as some park users could be reluctant to leave.

They also argued that it would just result in crowds transferring to the Lower Park, just a short distance away.

The Council stressed it has 'no intention of closing Lewisham's parks', and has introduced extra cleaning services and additional security patrols.