The London Borough of Bromley's Portfolio Holder for the Environment has committed to assessing necessary actions to support the health of water bodies in parks, recognising the council’s responsibilities as a riparian owner and the ecological benefits.
The Kelsey Park Lakes have been identified as the top priority due to high silt levels, which are causing operational and safety issues, reducing flood capacity, and negatively impacting wildlife.
The project has been progressing steadily with several key ecology and condition surveys having taken place. The works contract has been awarded to Land and Water Limited. Works are due to commence on site mid-October 2024 and will be completed by June 2025.
The desilting process will occur in stages, beginning with the Silt Trap, followed by the upper lake, and finally the lower lake. A waterbody will remain accessible for the park's wildfowl and other water reliant species at each stage of the project, with lakes continually holding water throughout, to ensure that they remain habitable for wildlife.
The council are working closely with the Environment Agency, the local councillors, and the Friends of Kelsey Park on the Desilting Project. This is an exciting project for Bromley and through this work, the council is showing its commitment to maintaining one of the borough’s flagship parks.
The Kelsey Park Desilting Project includes silt maintenance work to the Silt Trap, Upper Lake and Lower Lake within Kelsey Park. This work will help to improve the water quality of the lake, increasing biodiversity and habitats for wildlife. Works are anticipated to commence on site in mid-October 2024, with an estimated completion time in spring 2025.
Phase 1 – Silt Trap
Phase 1 of the project will involve the desilting of the silt trap. There will be a site central compound located in the large grassy area to the rear of the playground. Vehicles will access the site through the Wickham Road entrance. The café, tennis courts and mini golf will remain open for public use during this time.
Phases 2 and 3 – Upper Lake and Lower Lake Works
Phases 2 and 3 of the project involves the desilting of the upper and lower lakes. The compound will remain in the same location as phase 1 with vehicles still entering the site through the Wickham Road entrance. The Upper Lake works entry point will be just along from the main duck feeding area, opposite ‘Swan Island’. The lower lake works entry point will be east of the waterfall at the point where you can cross the lake. The café, tennis courts and mini golf will remain open for public use during this time.
Further questions and updates
Stay in touch and be notified of any project updates and consultation events for either the desilting or bridge projects.
If you have any further question regarding the Kelsey Parks desilting project, please email: ParksEngagement@bromley.gov.uk.