Published: Monday, 23rd February 2026
Planning permission has been approved for the restoration of Bradbourne Lakes, marking a major milestone in the long term project to revitalise one of Sevenoaks’ most well-loved parks.
The approval means Sevenoaks District Council can move forward with its proposed works to improve the lakes’ ecological health, accessibility and historic features while creating a welcoming public space for residents and visitors.
The decision also enables the project to progress to the implementation phase, subject to final funding confirmation from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF), expected in early March 2026.
If funding is awarded, works are expected to start later in 2026.
The Bradbourne restoration project is the biggest overhaul of the Lakes since they were built nearly 300 years ago. The park is centred around five interlinked ornamental lakes, connected via waterfalls and sluices, and set within a landscape consisting of woodland, grassland and paths.
During the proposed works, the Lakes will be drained and restored using reclaimed and locally sourced materials where possible. Sluices, leaks and lake banks will be fixed.
Green spaces will be improved, and some will be planted with wildflowers. Silt will be removed and reused to form new reed beds and areas for vegetation, improving biodiversity. This will also improve water quality, supporting wildlife in the River Darent.
The footpaths will be replaced and a new natural play area with benches, eco-friendly toilets and homes for bats and birds will be installed.
As well as the physical improvements, community engagement and volunteer activities will be scheduled throughout the project.
The improvements are expected to be complete in 2027.
The project will be funded by a £1.6 million grant from the (NLHF) and £502,000 of funding from developers secured by Sevenoaks District Council.
Cllr Irene Roy, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Cleaner and Greener, says: “We’re very excited to have been granted planning consent. This means we can move ahead to the next stage of this ambitious project that will benefit local residents, visitors and wildlife.”
For more information about the Bradbourne Lakes restoration project, visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/bradbournelakes.
Planning permission was approved by the Development Management Committee on Thursday 19 February 2026.
The planning permission covers the lakes and works up to one metre of the lake banks. It includes replacement or repairs to existing bridges, a new bridge, new stepping stones, a model boat platform and jetty as well as de-silting of the lakes.
Work to the paths, benches, play area and toilets are not part of the planning consent and are being carried out under permitted development rights.
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