About

The Bradbourne Residents’ Association (BRA) was reformed in December 2011 to work towards the restoration and conservation of Bradbourne Lakes as well as all issues affecting local residents.

Membership of the BRA is for those living in the area bordered by the A25 to the north and the railway tracks to the east and west. However, we are not only involved in this area and support local campaigns across the town.

Frequently asked questions

When will the restoration begin?

Sevenoaks District Council has agreed a request from the Bradbourne Residents Association to lead an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a grant to fund a restoration. The application is a two stage process. The first-round describes the project in outline. If this is successful, a more detailed second-round application is made. The whole process can be expected to take at least 18 months. The aim is to have a first-round application ready for submission by April 2015. Clearly, therefore, no major restoration work could begin before 2017 and only then if the applications are successful.

Can I help with the restoration project?

We are always looking for people to support with our program of works, If you’re able to lend a hand at a work party or provide your expertise in the planning or practical skills for the implementation of the restoration project we would be happy to hear from you. Please use the contact form on the right.

Can I do some work outside of the work parties?

Not without prior agreement from Sevenoaks District Council or Bradbourne Residents Association. All works need to be carried out by the professionals or under their advice, during scheduled work parties.

Should the lakes just be left to naturalise?

Bradbourne Lakes are a set of ornamental lakes, and were never intended to be a nature reserve. The water quality and silting if left un-addressed will affect the wildlife, as well as the aesthetic experience for all the families and individuals who visit. In addition the water from the lakes eventually ends up in the River Darent, which is a source of drinking water. However, there are areas which could be planted more attractively with wild flowers, which will help reduce maintenance, encourage wildlife, as well as improve the overall appearance.

What’s happened regarding the oil pollution?

In January 2012 the lakes were polluted when a company or individual poured a large quantity of oil down a drain. Fish, ducks and geese were lost, although the results of testing more recently have shown that silt waste from the Lakes would not present a disposal hazard. The Environments Agency carried out interviews of companies and individuals in the area but sadly were unable to identify the culprits, and were therefore unable to recover the cost of the clean-up efforts.