Council invests £60,000 in Bradbourne Lakes improvement plan

THE POPULAR Bradbourne Lakes area in Sevenoaks is to undergo restoration and improvement following a decision by Sevenoaks District Council’s Cabinet to give the go ahead to £60,000 of investment.

The five ornamental lakes and surrounding parkland date back to 1740 and once formed 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.

This decision to make the funding available 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 for the future.

This £60k funding boost earmarked for inclusion in next year’s budget will see LUC put the improvements plan into motion by commissioning the necessary reports from tree, wildlife and water experts. Form this the company will produce detailed designs and plans for the project before approaching a host of potential funding partners.

Cllr Matthew Dickins, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Direct and Trading Services, said: “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 Council’s Cabinet agreed to the funding at its meeting on Thursday 11 October 2018.