Published: Thursday, 17th September 2026
The restoration of Bradbourne Lakes will reach a major milestone in the coming weeks as work begins on the biggest transformation of the historic park in nearly 300 years.
The ambitious project will restore and enhance the much-loved lakes, improving accessibility, biodiversity and water quality while protecting its heritage for future generations.
To allow the works to be carried out safely, Bradbourne Lakes will close to the public from 28 September 2026. The park is expected to reopen by summer 2027.
The improvement works will include:
- Restoring and repairing the five lakes
- Repairing and upgrading sluices, bridges, lake banks and other historic structures
- Removing accumulated silt and reusing it to create new planting beds and habitat areas to improve biodiversity and water quality
- Enhancing green spaces through new wildflower planting and improved pathways
- Creating a natural play area, installing an accessible toilet with baby changing facilities, and providing new habitats for bats and birds
- Improving water flow and quality to support wildlife in the River Darent.
Alongside the physical improvements, a programme of volunteering, community engagement, education and wellbeing activities will be delivered by Kent Wildlife Trust, West Kent Mind, South East Rivers Trust and Historic England.
The restoration project follows years of campaigning by the Bradbourne Residents' Association and extensive public consultation carried out by landscape and environmental specialists Land Use Consultants. Residents identified restoring lake edges, removing silt, repairing paths and structures, managing overgrown vegetation and improving habitats for wildlife as key priorities.
Cllr Irene Roy, Cabinet Member for Cleaner and Greener, says: "Bradbourne Lakes is a treasured green space at the heart of our community, and we are delighted to be moving forward with this once-in-a-generation restoration project.
“The Bradbourne Residents' Association has championed the regeneration of the lakes for many years, and I would like to thank its members for their dedication, passion and contribution to shaping these plans.
“We appreciate residents' patience and understanding as we undertake the most significant improvements to Bradbourne Lakes since they were created almost 300 years ago."
The project is being funded through a 1.6 million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, alongside more than £500,000 secured by Sevenoaks District Council from housing developer contributions.
For more information about the restoration project, visit www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/bradbournelakes.
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