Bradbourne Lakes to Close for Biggest Restoration in Nearly 300 Years

Bradbourne Lakes Park in Sevenoaks will close to the public from 28 September, as work begins on what Sevenoaks District Council is calling the biggest transformation of the historic park in nearly 300 years. The park isn't expected to reopen until summer 2027.

The restoration will repair and restore all five lakes, upgrade sluices, bridges and lake banks, and remove accumulated silt - reusing it to create new planting beds and habitat areas aimed at improving biodiversity and water quality. The works also cover improving water flow and quality into the River Darent, new wildflower planting, improved pathways, a natural play area, an accessible toilet with baby-changing facilities, and new habitats for bats and birds.

The project is funded by £1.6 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, plus more than £500,000 secured by the council from housing developer contributions. It follows years of campaigning by the Bradbourne Residents' Association and extensive public consultation carried out by Land Use Consultants.

Cllr Irene Roy, the council's Cabinet Member for Cleaner and Greener, said: "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."

A programme of volunteering, community engagement, education and wellbeing activities alongside the works will be delivered by Kent Wildlife Trust, West Kent Mind, South East Rivers Trust and Historic England. For a park that already hosts a well-attended community festival each summer, a closure running the better part of a year will be a significant change for regular visitors - but one aimed at securing the site's future for decades to come. Source: Sevenoaks District Council