Council invests in Bradbourne Lakes improvements

Published: Tuesday, 16th October 2018

Sevenoaks District Council's Cabinet has given the go ahead to invest £60,000 to take forward the restoration and improvement of Bradbourne Lakes

This follows hot on the heels of the Council commissioning leading landscape and leisure experts, Land Use Consultants (LUC), to engage with the community in developing a creative vision from which to work.

This £60k funding boost earmarked for inclusion in next year’s budget would see LUC progress this by commissioning the necessary reports from tree, wildlife and water experts, producing detailed designs for delivering that vision and planning the project delivery before approaching a host of potential funding partners.

Cllr Matthew Dickins, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Direct and Trading Services, says: “The Bradbourne Lakes are a jewel in the Sevenoaks crown and have long been a favourite destination for visitors from both far and wide – but there is lots we’d like to do to polish this gem and really make it sparkle.

“The public consultation earlier this summer, led by renowned experts Land Use Consultants and kindly supported by the Bradbourne Residents’ Association, resulted in the compilation of a creative vision which clearly sets out the community’s ambition for the Bradbourne Lakes.

“I am extremely grateful to all those who took part in this vital work and we’re now determined to see that vision delivered.”

The five ornamental lakes date back to 1740, once forming part of the Bradbourne Estate before they were handed to Sevenoaks Urban Council in 1935. Over the years, the Council and community have worked together to maintain the much-loved park, including investing in new fencing, gates and benches. The Council is now seeking to undertake the most major overhaul of the Lakes since they were built to secure their future for generations to come.

The Council’s Cabinet agreed to the funding at its meeting on Thursday 11 October 2018.

For more information, see item 16 at https://cds.sevenoaks.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=324&MId=2263&J=1