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Sevenoaks council need £1million to restore Bradbourne Lakes

More money is needed to fund an outdoor renovation project in Sevenoaks.

The district council is appealing for a £1 million investment to revitalise Bradbourne Lakes, in Lambarde Road, to its former glory.

Bradbourne Lakes. Picture: Sevenoaks District Council
Bradbourne Lakes. Picture: Sevenoaks District Council

In 2018, the local authority invested £60,000 employing Land Use Consultants (LUC) to draw up a vision for the five ornamental lakes which date back to 1740.

The company carried out a detailed tree, wildlife, water and structural survey before unveiling the vision estimated to cost £1.3 million.

The local authority has secured more than £250,000 from home builders under the community infrastructure levy but needs a further £1million to carry out the improvements.

The renovation plans include draining and repairing some of the lakes and removing more than 5,000 tonnes of silt.

Paths and bridges will also be fixed and a new nature play area will be created.

New plants and woodland will be planted to support wildlife and bat and bird boxes will be installed.

The grounds once formed part of the Bradbourne Estate before the Sevenoaks Urban Council took over responsibility in 1935.

LUC sought the views and priorities of visitors, the Bradbourne Residents' Association and the wider community to create the vision.

Cllr Margot McArthur, the council’s cabinet member for cleaner and greener, said: "The Bradbourne Lakes are a jewel in the Sevenoaks crown and have long been a favourite destination for visitors – but there is lots we’d like to do to polish this gem.

"The community has told us their priorities for these historic lakes and renowned leisure experts, LUC, has drawn up an exciting vision which conveys their ambitions.

"We’ve already banked more than quarter of a million pounds towards the improvements. LUC have an excellent track record of securing external funding and we are hopeful we can attract even more money for this exciting project."

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