Rock Park Conservation Area

Rock Park Conservation Area was designated in February 1979. It represents a purpose-built, out-of-town, residential estate formed by Liverpool merchants and sited near the local cross-river ferry terminal. The riverside estate also benefits from fine views across the Mersey Estuary and can be clearly recognised from viewpoints on the opposite bank of the River.

The recorded history of the area dates back to the medieval period. With records relating to the 13th century manor of Bebington and much later in the 17th century rock farm. The introduction of the steam ferry service in 1830 stimulated the development of the area and its growing popularity and fuelled developments such as the extension of the pleasure gardens.

In 1836 several Liverpool gentlemen formed a joint stock company called the Rock Ferry company. Land was purchased by the company and in the following year plans were drawn up by Jonathan Bennison incorporating road layout and building plots. The design of individual houses were left to architects employed by individual land owners but had to comply with the parks articles of agreement of 1837 which stipulated constraints in terms of size, materials, height and occupation.

The development of Rock Park was rapid and by 1850 the plan was almost complete. Famed novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne rented no 26 Rock Park for two years while visiting Liverpool as an American counsel.

The construction of the New Ferry Bypass in the 1970’s dissected Rock Park into two halves and resulted in the destruction of much of the historic fabric of the park.

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.