Council plans to trial the unlocking of seven additional parks in Greenwich has faced backlash, as opposition councillors claim the scheme could invite anti-social behaviour.

The three-month trial beginning in July will see Fairy Hill Park, Southwood Park, Queenscroft Park, Rockcliffe Gardens, William Barefoot Gardens, Plumstead Gardens and St Mary’s Gardens left unlocked overnight.

Conservative councillors John Hills, Mandy Brinkhurst and Matt Hartley, whose Coldharbour and New Eltham ward includes Fairy Hill Park and Southwood Park, claim the plans could have a negative impact on hundreds of local residents and park users.

They have formally objected to the trial, which they say could invite anti-social behaviour, and criticised a lack of adequate consultation with the public.

Councillor Matt Hartley, leader of Greenwich Conservatives, said: “We have serious concerns about the council’s plans to leave these parks unlocked overnight.

“Over the years our residents in New Eltham have suffered many problems with burglaries, anti-social behaviour and the use of motorbikes, and to leave the gates unlocked 24/7 is simply an invitation for those problems to continue and get worse.”

Members of the Friends of Fairy Hill Park have also voiced their opposition to the trial, urging the council to reconsider.

Carol Howcroft, a resident of Broad Lawn and secretary of the committee, said: “We all absolutely love Fairy Hill Park and I and lots of my neighbours work hard all year round to keep it in top condition.

“The last thing we want to see that hard work put at risk by leaving the gates permanently unlocked.”

A spokesman for Greenwich Council said the borough currently has 77 parks and open space which are already left unlocked overnight.

He said: “This arrangement is not permanent and is being tested to allow for park users to be able to access parks earlier in the morning and later in the day.

“It will also allow for the redeployment of some officers so that they are on duty and visible at peak times of demand.

“The trial will be closely monitored and the Royal Borough is discussing the plans with Parks Friends Groups.

“If there are any legitimate concerns about security during this trial, the parks, estates and open spaces department would be happy to take feedback and ensure that specific adjustments are made. This may include reverting to relocking overnight if considered appropriate.”