A historic green space is set to receive a £2.1 million revamp after obtaining a grant from the National Lottery.

Major improvements planned for Bradbourne Lakes in Sevenoaks have now been given the go-ahead.

The five lakes, which feed into River Darent, date back to 1740 and formed part of the Bradbourne Estate.

Over the years, the council and community have maintained the much-loved park by adding new fencing, gates and benches.

However, a major investment was needed to restore the interconnected lakes, paths and facilities to make them fit for the 21st century.

In 2018, the local authority invested £60,000 in employing Land Use Consultants (LUC) to draw up plans for the site.

Dubbed the Bradbourne Re-bourne project, it put in a bid with the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to help with costs but was turned down.

A new application for a grant of £1.6 million has now been successful.

The money – along with £502,000 secured from housing developers – will pay for the project that will start in 2025. It is expected to take around three years.

During this time the lakes will be drained and restored using reclaimed and locally-sourced materials. Sluices and leaks will be fixed.

Green spaces will be planted with wildflowers. Silt will also be removed and reused to form new reedbeds and areas for vegetation, which is set to increase biodiversity.

Paths will be improved and a new natural play area with benches, eco-friendly toilets and homes for bats and birds will be installed.

Cllr Margot McArthur (Con), cabinet member for cleaner and greener, said: “Bradbourne Lakes are a jewel in the heart of the community, so I am very excited about this project.

“The National Lottery grant means we can really push on with our ambitious £2.1 million Bradbourne Re-bourne plans.

“We have been aware for some time that the lakes could be so much better.

“A build-up of silt has impacted on wildlife, water quality and limits some activities, such as model boating.

“Paths are uneven making the site difficult for some. The project will make this site more accessible to all.

“We have been aware for some time that the lakes could be so much better.”

“The other changes will support nature, including new trees and hedges, helping to do our bit to tackle climate change.”

She added: “I look forward to the Kent Wildlife Trust, Historic England and Mind delivering exciting activities, promoting the lake’s rich history and running sessions that encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to support nature and the historic environment.

“I want to say a big thank you to the Bradbourne Lakes Residents’ Association who have given up so much of their time to contribute to our plans.

“We look forward to working with them to deliver this exciting project.”