For some time the western branch of section 1 of the Green Chain walk is affected by development works at Southmere Lake. Part of the route described on page 6 of our walk guidance is out of use.
There is a simple diversion. From underneath the flyover above Bazelgette Way, keep left past the building site and the Lakeside Centre until you can see Southmere Lake to the right. Walk to the lake to rejoin the route.
In May 2024 a walker has let us know that it is now possible to turn towards the lake just past the building site rather than continuing past the lakeside events centre. This walker found that the gates to the terrace of the Thamesmead Social and events centre were open at both ends (see paragraph 5 on page 6 of our walk guidance).
