Hamilton Square Conservation Area

Hamilton Square Conservation Area was designated in April 1977. Hamilton Square Conservation Area is a distinct urban area in Birkenhead, Wirral. It is located to the north east of the town centre. The Conservation Area is centred on Hamilton Square and its surrounding streets and also includes an area leading north east towards Woodside Ferry Terminal, which lies on the Mersey waterfront. The Ferry Terminal and its approach are however outside of the Conservation Area boundary. Of the 63 properties around the square, 62 are listed as grade I listed buildings, whilst the Town Hall on the eastern side is grade II* listed.

The layout of Hamilton Square is based on a formal street grid and is the only surviving realised portion of a grand design for Birkenhead set out in 1825 by James Gillespie Graham. The plan of Hamilton Square is laid out to utilise the topography of the site to maximum effect. The Town Hall was located and designed to make it visible from Liverpool’s waterfront, emphasising Birkenhead’s civic pride to their near neighbour across the Mersey.

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.