Bradbourne Lakes update

Published: Wednesday, 28th July 2021

Sevenoaks District Council have expressed huge disappointment at the announcement that their bid to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for works to restore Bradbourne Lakes has been unsuccessful

due to a change in the funds criteria.

The bid made by Sevenoaks District Council with support from residents and other organisations with significant funding committed had been seen as a strong bid with a real opportunity for success.

The pandemic has been referenced by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as a reason to look differently at how it allocates funding and as a result they have significantly changed the focus. Projects that promote inclusion and reach a wider range of communities are seen as higher priority. The Council was informed that it’s previously compliant scheme would now be unsuccessful and would not get past the first stage.

As frustrating as this news is, Sevenoaks District Council remain determined and committed to bringing about major improvements to Bradbourne Lakes.

Cabinet Member for Cleaner and Greener, Cllr Margot McArthur said: “This is hugely disappointing news, however it does not dampen our enthusiasm to secure significant and long lasting improvements to Bradbourne Lakes. A lot of hard work and time went into this project, and whilst they have decided not to progress our scheme for funding, we remain committed to improving the lakes for the benefit of our residents and visitors.

“Sevenoaks District Council, through its Community Infrastructure Levy Board, has made a financial commitment of at least £250,000 for the project and we are already speaking with other organisations that would support our ambitions for the lakes to bring about these important improvements”