Lake restoration works at Bradbourne Lakes North, Sevenoaks

What was proposed

The scheme proposed de-silting the ornamental lakes, repairing historic structures, removing self-sown trees and adding stepping stones, a boat deck and two bridges.

“(Item No 4.2) 1 4.2 - 25/03292/FUL Date expired 19 February 2026 Proposal: De-silting of the ornamental lakes and conservation works to lake edges and connecting streams. Remedial works comprising the removal of associated self-sown trees, installation of formal stepping stones, a model boat launching deck, two new pedestrian bridges and repairs of the historic structures including banks, pedestrian bridges and water cascades.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the works would provide public benefits through improved ecology, appearance, accessibility, recreation and heritage conservation.

“Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) 130 This proposal is not CIL liable. Conclusion 131 The proposed development will make a positive contribution to Bradbourne Lakes Park in terms of appearance, usability, biodiversity and heritage conservation and…”

“(Item No 4.2) 20 bring significant public benefits. The de-silting of the lakes will not only improve the appearance of the lakes but bring important ecological benefits, while the repairs to the existing bridges and the provision of two new bridges will make the park more accessible. The new stepping stones and a model boat launching deck will add interest and entertainment.”

Officer report

What consultees and residents said

The Town Council recommended approval, consultees raised no objections subject to conditions, and seven public representations included five supporting letters, one objection and one neutral response.

“Consultations 15 Sevenoaks Town Council – Recommends approval 16 Environment Agency- No objection subject to conditions relating to a landscape management scheme condition 17 Forestry Commission - No response received 18 KCC Ecology – No objection raised subject to conditions - 19 “We advise that we are satisfied that the conclusions of the ecological reports.”

“30 Although these works aim to enhance the heritage assets, the proposed scheme needs to be continuously informed by a specialist archaeological team to limit negative impact. The archaeological constraints and opportunities should be reviewed and based on the results of archaeological assessment, including advanced archaeological fieldwork where major groundworks are proposed.”

Officer report

Who spoke at the meeting

The committee heard from a speaker against the application, a speaker for it and a parish representative, followed by questions.

What members discussed

Members expressed sympathy for neighbours concerned about overlooking, noted that noise complaints could be raised with Environmental Health, and approved the proposal.

“In response to questions of clarification of the Officers, it was explained that if planning permission was granted a condition may be imposed to require additional details of the design to be presented to officers. Condition 4 outlined landscape maintenance which corresponded with environmental objectives however this may be changed should the current position be insufficient.”

“Members discussed the report. Sympathies were expressed to local residents whose gardens backed onto the site due to overlooking concerns. It was however noted that any excessive noise could be raised with the Council and residents raise complaints with Environmental Health team. Members expressed their gratitude and approval of the proposal.”

Minutes