'Milestone' for £1.6m lakes revamp as plans backed

Plans for the "biggest overhaul" of five ornamental lakes in Kent since they were created 300 years ago have been backed by local councillors.

The revamp of Bradbourne Lakes has been approved by Sevenoaks District Council (SDC), in what the authority says is a "milestone" for the project.

Dubbed "Bradbourne Re-Bourne", the work will see the lakes drained and restored, while improvements are carried out to facilities and to wildlife conservation projects.

Funding of £1.6m was awarded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund in 2024, and work is expected to be completed in 2027.

The park also includes waterfalls and sluices, set within a landscape of woodland, grassland and paths.

Councillor Irene Roy, SDC cabinet member for cleaner and greener, said the planning permission would enable the council to "move ahead to the next stage" of a project that would "benefit local residents, visitors and wildlife".

The application was approved by the Development Management Committee on Thursday.

In addition to the lottery grant, the council said it had secured more than £500,000 of funding from developers.

Improvements are expected to include replacement or repairs to existing bridges, a new bridge, and a model boat platform and jetty. There are also plans for a new natural play area with benches.

As well as the physical improvements, SDC said community engagement and volunteer activities will be scheduled throughout the project.

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