Little Dorrit Park and Peace Garden: A sensitive reimagining of a historic inner-city park inspired by Dickensian heritage
Situated in the Borough and Bankside ward of Southwark, Little Dorrit Park and Peace Garden draws its name and character from Charles Dickens’ 1857 novel, whose title character was shaped by the author's own childhood experiences in the area. Root And Erect’s proposals respond to this literary and social history by subtly embedding references into a renewed spatial and material language. The design approach respects the layered significance of the site while providing a welcoming, inclusive space for contemporary users
A new play area will support children of different ages and abilities, encouraging intergenerational engagement through a variety of tactile and imaginative elements. Historical features will be retained or reinterpreted within the new scheme, inviting users to connect with the park’s narrative past while experiencing it through play and everyday use.
Alongside its heritage framing, the project seeks to improve ecological performance and inclusivity within a dense urban setting. Biodiverse planting and small wildlife habitats will be introduced to soften the park’s edges and support local ecosystems. The boundary along Little Dorrit Court and Birdcage Alley will be reconfigured to improve permeability, sightlines, and safety, better connecting the park to the surrounding streets. An enhanced entrance at Borough High Street will welcome passersby into the space, offering opportunities for pause and recreation. A new communal zone with seating will respond to daily rhythms, such as the school run, providing a sociable environment that balances the needs of children and adults alike.