In the relentless progress of housing development, the provision of parks and open spaces was frequently neglected. 

The Camberwell Vestry took some steps to preserve previously common land by its purchase of Peckham Rye Common, Camberwell Green, Nunhead Green and Goose Green in the late 19th century.

Brunswick Square had a different origin as a private open space for the benefit of the houses on the south side. It later came into the hands of the Camberwell Vestry, which made it a public open space.