Harrow Council has denied a treasured green space will disappear after neighbours feared an “unnecessary” car park was being built behind their homes.

John Shaw, of Alexandra Close, South Harrow, noticed diggers excavating the playing court and green area of Alexandra Park at the end of March.

He was concerned about a lack of information being provided about what was happening to the park, which his garden backs onto, after hearing rumours it could be turned into a space for cars to park.

Mr Shaw said: “I would be shocked to find the council taking the only flat playing area of grass in the park - or any of our open spaces - to make room for vehicles.

“I would also be angry if this happened, as no park users or residents bordering the park received any planning notification or consultation on this.”

However, the council has since explained that “improvement works” are currently taking place in the park and it will not be demolished.

By the summer, there will be new basketball and cricket posts and the Green Gym will be moved to an area towards the Park Lane entrance

The old basketball area will offer car parking facilities only during events.

Cllr Graham Henson said: “All our parks are loved and enjoyed by our residents. There are lots of improvement works taking place across some of our parks so by summer residents can make better use of and enjoy improved facilities.

“At Alexandra Park, residents and park users will get to enjoy a new multi-use area for basketball, football and cricket near the current site.

“The park which is also popular for family events during the summer and half term will also include a small car parking area on the old basketball site which will only be used when events take place.

“We’d like to thank residents for their co-operation while the works are taking place. We hope that in the long term residents will continue to enjoy and use their local park.”