Eastham Village Conservation Area

Eastham Village Conservation Area was designated in April 1974. The area has grown up over a number of centuries. The character of the village is characterised by a mix of building types. Small terraces of cottages are interspersed amongst larger more opulent villas. Today many of its historic buildings are Victorian or later, the settlement is mediaeval in origin and the Village still retains its mediaeval street pattern with roads set around the 14th century church. It is this street pattern and the group value of a rich variety of irregularly clustered period buildings which largely determines the distinctive character of the Area.

In the 19th century Eastham was well known for its woods and natural beauty. In 1854 Nathaniel Hawthorne visited Eastham during the time he held position for of United States Consul. It was a popular destination for a days outing. The Stanleys built the Eastham ferry hotel, pleasure gardens, an open air stage, zoo band stand and ball rooms. The development of the Manchester Ship canal yard led to the industrialisation of some of the area around Eastham. Its popularity began to decline in the 1920’s the great oil dock project brought activity back to the area during the 1950’s with Eastham oil dock becoming the largest in Britain. This resulted in housing estates and the urban extension into the woods and fields. The conservation area designation has however helped Eastham maintain a degree of separation from neighbouring built up areas.

The Conservation Area Guidance leaflet explains what a Conservation Area is and how the designation or extension of one affects those who live there. The aim is to provide general guidance and advice on the type of works that normally require planning permission as a result of designation.