Walmer Design Statement - Dover District Council

This document is dedicated to the memory ofDerek W. FeatherstoneChairman of the Walmer Design Statement GroupApril 2001 - August 2003

The Walmer Design Statement GroupThe Group was formed in April 2001, with the support of Walmer Parish Council,to prepare and publish a Design Statement for the Parish of Walmer. It isrecognised that decisions made on planning matters within the parish mustconform to current local authority planning policy. This Statement has beenproduced by the local community and is intended to influence the operation of thestatutory planning system and give guidance for the design of all development inWalmer.Our objectives were:• to focus on the special character and design features in different partsof this large and diverse parish,• to set out Design Principles that could be applied appropriately, and• to give local residents an opportunity to influence future planningdecisions in a constructive way. The document prepared had torepresent their vision.The document has been the subject of a six-week public consultation exercisearranged by Dover District Council. Some alterations were made on the basis ofcomments received. Dover District Council has agreed to adopt the WalmerDesign Statement as a material planning consideration in the assessment anddetermination of planning applications.________Front Cover: Walmer CastleBack Cover : Royal Marines Memorial Bandstand© January 2006 All rights reserved.Walmer Design Statement Group10 Victoria Road, Deal, Kent CT14 7APTelephone (01304) 381506; e-mail - clerk@walmerpc.freeserve.co.ukThe Design Statement Group would like to express its appreciation to those listedbelow for the time and expertise they gave to assist in the preparation of thisdocument.Sue Beer, Leslie Bulmer, David Collyer, English Heritage, Graham Hoskins, ArthurLeathern, Valerie LeVaillant, Gertrude Nunns, Richard Wells, Leon Williams, FredYardleyCatherine Hughes, Planning Policy Consultant, MRTPIGillian Shanks, Illustrator

ContentsSection Page1 Where the Countryside meets the Sea 12 The Parish of Walmer 23 Historic Walmer 34 Conservation Areas and Historic Monuments 45 Character Areas of Walmer 55.1 Walmer Seafront 65.2 The Military and The Royal Marines 95.3 St. Saviours Area 125.4 Blenheim Road Area 145.5 Mid-Dover Road Area 155.6 Downs Road Area 185.7 Liverpool Road Area 205.8 Upper Walmer Village 225.9 Walmer Station Area 255.10 Modern Cul-de-sacs 266 Architectural Detail 287 Green Spaces 308 Leisure Areas 319 Traffic and Transport 3210 Street Furniture 3311 Design Principles 3412 Statement of Community Involvement 38Acknowledgements

1 Walmer—Where the Countryside Meets the SeaThe A258 from Dover winds through rolling fields and dips through the woods ofOxney Bottom and the village of Ringwould before offering the first panoramicview of Walmer and its surroundings. Walmer and Deal fill the foreground, andacross the fields to the northwest, towards Sandwich and Pegwell Bay, appear thechalk cliffs of Thanet. To the northeast and east is the sweep of water separatedfrom the English Channel by the treacherous Goodwin Sands and known as theDowns. Fishing boats and coasters may be visible in the Downs and a variety ofships pass in the Channel itself. France may also be visible - with one or moreferries going to or from the Continent.The narrowing of the road forces drivers to slow and makes it possible toappreciate the delightful variety of architecture in the old village of Walmer - whichgrew up around Old St. Mary’s Church (established in the twelfth century) andWalmer Castle (established by Henry VIII). The road continues down Drum Hill,past Walmer Castle Road, and runs through the residential area that grew upbetween Upper Walmer and Lower Walmer.Dover Road enters The Strand as you escape the sombre walls of Cavalry Barracks(formerly the South Barracks) that rise on your left. The sea, first seen as part of theEast side of Dover Road in the old village, Upper Walmermore distant, wider view, is now on your right. Walmer Green, the pebble beach,the Downs Sailing Club, the fishing boats and the Lifeboat Station, together withthe wide horizons and the salty tang in the air, all testify to the presence of the sea.The Royal Marines Memorial Bandstand on the Green and the impressive clocktower on the Admiralty Mews (formerly the Royal Marines School of Music) at thenorth end of The Strand, confirm the enormous influence of the military. HenryVIII’s Deal Castle, and the Captain’s Garden opposite, denote the northernboundary of Walmer.Walmer Green and The Strand, Lower WalmerThe beach, Lower Walmer1

2 The Parish of WalmerWalmer lies seven miles northeast of Dover, in East Kent, on a stretch of coastwhich extends from the famous White Cliffs to Sandwich Bay and the Isle ofThanet to the north. The shape of the parish is that of a long, thin trianglepointing to the north.To the north, the boundary between Walmer and Deal lies just before DealCastle, which, with its sister, Walmer Castle, dominates this part of the coastline.To the east is the natural boundary of the English Channel, reaching across theGoodwin Sands to the coast of France. The northernmost part of the parish,called Lower Walmer, is only just above sea level. Extending directlysouthwards along the coast, from Deal Castle and past Walmer Castle, is thethrough road to the former fishing village of Kingsdown – a distance of abouttwo miles. On the east side of the road is the coastal strip – comprising mainlymarine grassland, rich with wild flowers, and bordering the wide and steeplyshelved shingle beach.Inland from, and to the south of, Walmer Castle the coastal downs rise steeplyto a height of around 100 feet to form the undulating farmland that runssouthwards and westwards from Upper Walmer.The southern boundary, forming the base of the triangle, runs east to westthrough this rolling countryside and is about 1.5 miles in length. Panoramicviews to Deal and beyond are available from various points in Upper Walmer.The two mile long western boundary lies close to the Mill Hill ridge, where theearliest signs of settlement in the area, some dating from Neolithic times, havebeen discovered. This border is marked by the railway line which runssouthwest from Lower Walmer to Dover, as does the A258 which, as DoverRoad, roughly bisects the parish.2

3 Historic WalmerWalmer's history and development are inextricably linked to its coastal location, tothe proximity of the notorious Goodwin Sands and to its nearness to mainlandEurope - and thus, at various times, to fishing, the victualling of ships, rescue andsalvage, the threat of invasion and, perhaps to a lesser extent, tourism.The origin of the name "Walmer" is uncertain and references can be found to atleast three possibilities. Firstly, that it derives from "Wahl Mere", indicating anancient and discrete community settled around a pool, secondly that it derives fromthe Latin "Vallum Mare", meaning a fortress against the sea and, thirdly that itderives from the meaning "the sea coast of the Weallas (or slaves)" - the slavesbeing those of the Jutish invaders of circa 450/500 AD.There is evidence of Neolithic,Bronze and Iron Age man in thearea and of Saxon settlements nearto the Old St. Mary's Church inWalmer itself - and it is alsogenerally accepted that it was atWalmer that Julius Caesar landedhis first expeditionary force in 55BC.Over the years, the growing localOld St. Mary’s Churchpopulation became increasinglyengaged in fishing and otheroccupations related to the sea. This process of change from agriculture was speededup, and consolidated, as changes in the coastline rendered it increasingly difficultfor shipping to use the harbours at Dover and Sandwich. Ships began to lay closeinshore in the calmer stretch of water (the Downs) between the coast and theGoodwin Sands - as much to take on supplies as to shelter.The threat of invasion during the Napoleonic wars led to the building of ArmyBarracks and the establishment of a naval hospital in Walmer - with livingaccommodation for dependants, and various support establishments, developingaround them. After the Battle of Waterloo, the military presence in Walmer wasreduced and parts of the Barracks served, firstly as the headquarters of the antismugglingCoastal Blockade and then as a coastguard station. From 1840 theBarracks housed various line regimentsuntil, in 1869, they were transferred to theAdmiralty to become The Depot, RoyalMarines. In 1930 some of the buildingsbecame the home of the Royal NavalSchool of Music - to become the RoyalMarines School of Music in 1950. In 1989,eleven musicians were killed by an IRAbomb - a tragedy that hastened thetransfer of the Royal Marines toPortsmouth. The Barracks closed inRNLI Lifeboat Station March 1996.The proximity of the Goodwin Sands, some four miles off the coast, led to theestablishment of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) lifeboat station atWalmer in 1856 and, apart from a fifteen year period (1912-1927), the station hasbeen in operation ever since.It was not until the nineteenthcentury that a rail link wasestablished at Walmer andencouraged visitors to the area tocompensate, at least in part, for thedecline in maritime relatedemployment.In the mid-16th Century, Henry VIII built Walmer Castle - one of three he builtwithin a mile or so of each other on this stretch of coast - as part of his defenceagainst invasion from Europe. Today, much altered and added to, it is the attractiveofficial residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. The Duke of Wellingtondied at the castle, as Lord Warden, in 1852.Today, Walmer remains relativelyinsulated, but by no means isolated,from the worst excesses of modernday life - quietly and proudlyreflecting on its past, whileconfidently looking to the future.Former Royal Marines School of Music3

4 Conservation Areas and Historic MonumentsWalmer remains rich in historical and architectural interest.Walmer Castle is perhaps the most prominent of the 29 listedproperties in the parish with Deal Castle lying just beyond thenorthern boundary. There are two scheduled AncientMonuments in the parish – Walmer Castle and the ruins of the11 th Century Manor House near Old St. Mary’s Church in UpperWalmer. Walmer Castle, together with its extensive grounds, isregistered by English Heritage as a Park and Garden of SpecialHistoric Interest.The parish has three conservation areas, shown in red on theadjacent map. The Upper Walmer Conservation Area includesbuildings that were part of the original village of Walmer. TheWalmer Seafront Conservation Area takes in Admiralty Mews –the former Naval Hospital and later the Royal Marines’ Schoolof Music, most of Archery Square and seafront properties alongMarine Road, The Beach, The Strand, York Road and CampbellRoad. The South Barracks Conservation Area includes thebuildings and open spaces that were formerly part of the SouthBarracks of the Royal Marines.4

5 Character Areas of WalmerThe objective of Design Statements is to describe and identifythe distinctive character of the parish and to draw up designprinciples based on that character. The aim is that they be usedin partnership with the local authority to guide and support localplanning and to influence future policy.Walmer is a large and diverse parish with a population of around8,000 and a heritage that spans many centuries and manydifferent architectural styles. The design characteristics ofproperties vary widely across the parish and it was thereforedecided to divide the parish into different Character Areas basedon shared history and design details as shown on theaccompanying map. The following pages set out the dominantand distinctive characteristics of each of these Areas,characteristics which the Design Statement urges newdevelopment to respect and reflect.The modern cul-de-sacs have been placed in one Character Areathough they are geographically dispersed throughout the parishand reflect a variety of popular architectural styles adopted forexpediency and economy in the late 20 th century. Some of theseare sensitive developments respecting and reflecting thedistinctive characteristics and design features of the CharacterAreas in which they are sited. The Design Statement requiresthat all future proposals for cul-de-sacs should take intoconsideration the good characteristics and features identified inthis Design Statement as existing in the surrounding CharacterAreas.5

5.1 Walmer SeafrontHistory/EvolutionWalmer seafront with its two mile pebbleshoreline extends from Deal Castle to Walmer’ssouthern boundary where it is overshadowed bythe White Cliffs. The geographical features ofthis shoreline and its proximity to France and theGoodwin Sands have been major contributoryfactors to the development of the area.Shoreline, grasses and sky Historically, Walmer seafront is accepted as beingthe site where Julius Caesar landed in 55 BC andthe commemorative stone marking this occasion is sited on Walmer Green. In 1540Henry VIII built Deal and Walmer Castles as part of his defences against foreigninvasion. The castles remain significant landmarks and Walmer Castle has beenthe official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports since the early 18 thcentury. At the beginning of the Napoleonic Wars troops were encamped inWalmer for dispatch to the continent, leading to the establishment of the militarybarracks and the naval hospital. In the mid-19th century the Coastal Blockade andthen the Coast Guard occupied a portion of the barracks. Supporting services forthe barracks were concentrated along The Strand. The retiring military and wealthyfamilies from London, with access made easier by the establishment of the railwayto Deal in 1847, built elegant seaside villas and promoted Walmer’s growth as aseaside resort.Boatmen have always been in evidence on Walmer seafront—fishing, servicingvessels in the Downs, smuggling and salvaging wrecks. The Royal National LifeboatInstitute established the lifeboat station on Walmer Green in 1856.General CharacterThe overall impression is of space and light created by wide, open skies anduninterrupted sea views. The ever changing colours of the sea and sky, the manytones of brown on the steeply shelved pebble beach and the vibrant colour fromthe broad grass sward provide a multi-coloured spectacle throughout the year. Thebeach, the promenade and Walmer Green provide a multitude of informalrecreational activities.The beach at its northern end, between the Sea Scouts’ Hut and the Downs SailingClub, remains a working beach with the clutter and smell of fishermen’s boats andhuts. The colourful paraphernalia is greatly appreciated by artists andphotographers. A well used promenade and parallel cycle path separate WalmerGreen from the beach. Sited on the Green is an area set aside for recreationalactivities. On the surrounding brick wall is a mosaic on a marine theme markingQueen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee in 2002. Also present are the Royal MarinesMemorial Bandstand, the Lifeboat Station and a small café.All properties along the seafront are built to maximise their view of the sea.Overlooking Walmer Green and the undeveloped shingle beach are the imposingindividually designed Victorian and Edwardian seaside villas, which line MarineRoad and The Beach. The buildings on Marine Road are detached propertiesfeaturing architectural details on the side walls, whereas terraced properties aremore common on The Beach. Many of these properties have been converted intoflats. High front walls and large shrubs accentuate privacy. A few properties ownenclosed private gardens situated on the Green.In contrast to the tranquillity of Marine Road and The Beach, The Strand is anactive commercial area overlooking the widest part of Walmer Green and theworking beach. It provides facilities for residents and tourists. All the propertiesform an interesting, undulating roofline, varying from two to four storeys. Many aretall narrow buildings with ground floor shops and with accommodation above, aresult of speculative building. St. Saviour’s Church occupies a central position and isthe site of a memorial to those who died in World War I. There are also a numberof public houses. With the advent of cars and supermarkets some of the shops havebeen converted to homes, but The Strand remains busy.6Lord Warden Avenue, Liverpool RoadHouses and boundaries, Wellington ParadeTo the south where the formal grass of Walmer Green ends the shingle supports avivid display of wildflowers and native grasses. This stretch of the promenade,

known as Wellington Parade, continues past The Lord Warden Estate and WalmerCastle and becomes an unadopted road giving vehicular access to the beachproperties at the southern boundary of the parish. Kingsdown Road runs parallelto Wellington Parade.Lord Warden Estate was developed in the 1960s in the extensive grounds ofWalmer Place, a 19 th century estate. While there are some Neo-Georgian two storeyterraces and semi-detached houses, three storey blocks of flats dominate the site.Architecturally, these flats are unlike any other development in Walmer with theirflat-roofs and box-like 1960s design. However, they are bounded by the 19 thcentury estate wall and mature gardens. They also have sea facing balconies andoverlook a broad green area between the estate and the sea, replicating featurescharacteristic of the seafront area. Quiet roads within the estate and the greensetting make it a sought after place to live, particularly by the retired. A significantnumber of its trees are protected.Terraces on The Strand overlooking Walmer Green with the bandstand and Lifeboat HouseWalmer Castle, facing a large area of natural shingle beach and flanked on two sidesby its meadow, trees and formal gardens, dominates the central part of the seafrontarea. This sense of spaciousness is reflected in the lower density of development inthe roads around the Castle making an important contribution to its setting. TheCastle’s imposing aspect, its historical significance and the attraction of its variousgardens make it a popular tourist site and a well used amenity for the localresidents.Hawkshill Road is just south of Walmer Castle on the slopes of Hawkshill Downand consists of a series of detached properties. At the top of Hawkshill Down isHawkshill Freedown (Common), an area of open downland owned and maintainedby Walmer Parish Council for its residents. The Freedown was a World War Iaerodrome and is now the site of a memorial to pilots who flew from here and werekilled fighting in France. Extensive views overlook open farmland and the sea.Properties on Wellington Parade are built on a pebble ridge facing the narrowunadopted shingle road and the beach. The land slopes down into the rear gardens.There are a few Edwardian houses similar to those on Marine Road but most of thehouses were built later in the 20 th century, reflecting the designs of that period andvarying from three-storey detached houses to large bungalows. All are designed totake advantage of their proximity to the sea.Commercial properties on The StrandTurreted property and carriage drive, Marine RoadNorth end of The StrandPorches and balconies, Marine Road7

Design DetailTerraces with balconies viewed from the promenade on Walmer Green, The BeachColourful boundary wall, The BeachCarriage driveway, The BeachPrivate walled gardens on Walmer Green belonging to substantial properties on The Beach8Scale - predominately Victorian and Edwardian detached houses or terracesof three or four storeys; many with basements; a few two-storeyhouses on The Strand; three-storey blocks of flats and two-storeyterraces in Lord Warden Estate; some large bungalows onWellington ParadeRoofs - pitched or hipped, slate or red tile; many unique features such asturrets, parapets, Mansard roofs, decorative ridge tiles and finials;impressive ornate chimneys, centrally distributed in terraces butwidely distributed in large family houses; ever changing rooflineWalls - mostly red brick; some rendered and painted white or pastel colours;first floor hanging tiles; significant design details on the sides; ornatecanopied balconies - wrought iron, timbered and glazedDoors - Solid and partially glazed wooden panel doors; often three or foursteps up from pavement and/or down to basement with ironrailings or brick rendered banisters; many side entrances, encaustictile entrances and recessed shop entrances; elegant canopies, porchesand verandasWindows - two-storey Victorian and Edwardian bays; large-pane and multipanesash; first floor picture windows; ground floor shop windowson The StrandGardens - many properties opening onto street, pavement or small pavedgardens; some large gardens with carriage drives on Marine Roadand The Beach; unique, private, hedged and walled gardens onbeach side of The Beach belonging to properties across the road;Lord Warden Estate with communal grounds and features retainedfrom previous estateBoundaries - low brick walls, some with metal railings; high brick walls with largewooden gates and hedges along The BeachGarages - where available, situated at the rear; often accessed from roadbehind; uniform garage blocks in Lord Warden EstateStreets - relatively quiet roads except for The Strand, a busy shoppingthoroughfare between Deal and Dover

5.2 The Military and The Royal MarinesThe area of Walmer occupied by the military and the Royal Marines was dividedinto four sites.History/EvolutionMilitary/Royal Marine NameEast BarracksSouth BarracksNorth BarracksInfirmary BarracksCurrent NameAdmiralty MewsCavalry BarracksThe Churchills &undeveloped siteMarine MewsThe area of Lower Walmer, just south of Deal Castle and the once thriving navalyard in Deal, developed rapidly in the 18 th century due to the building of a navalhospital, a military hospital and barracks for a cavalry regiment and two infantrybattalions. By 1869, the Admiralty had acquired all the military sites in Walmer andthe Royal Marines occupied these until 1996. The facilities were then closed downand the land was sold to private developers.Admiralty Mews was the site of the naval hospital, rebuilt in 1812 after being struckby lightning. To the south of the hospital, four imposing houses known as RoyalBuildings were erected for senior staff. In the latter half of the 19 th centuryadditional buildings were added to the west to meet the needs of the Royal MarinesDepot. Admiralty Mews has been part of the Walmer Seafront Conservation Areasince 1993 and many of the individual buildings, as well as the front wall and gates,are grade-II listed. There is a military cemetery in the southwest corner. Theconversion of these buildings into forty residential units began in 1997 but theexternal features of the hospital buildings and later additions have remained largelyunchanged.Cavalry Barracks was the home of cavalry and infantry units from 1795. In 1896land to the west was acquired, extending the area to 30 acres, making this thelargest of the four sites. While much of this new land was used as drill fields andplaying fields, it was also the site of the barracks church of St Michael’s and AllAngels’, consecrated in 1907. It is believedthat the Jubilee Gates added to the DoverRoad entrance commemorate QueenVictoria’s Jubilee in 1887. All the barrackbuildings have been transformed into eitherindividual residential units or flats. Manyare grade-II listed because they representhistoric examples of the country’s firstpurpose-built military barracks. Newproperties have been built but the originalopen spaces have been retained. St.Michael’s and All Angels’ has beenconverted into six substantial homes.Walmer Parish Council now owns part ofthe original playing fields (The Drill Field)and manages the grounds for the benefit ofthe residents. A primary school has beenre-sited on the remainder of the space. TheSouth Barracks Conservation Area wasestablished in 1996 and the development ofthe South Barracks site into houses andflats is almost complete. This area wasallocated in the Dover District Local Plan2002 (Policy AS4) for redevelopment anddesignated for leisure and tourism,institutional, residential and/or B1employment uses.The North Barracks, dating from 1795, wasoriginally designed as a military hospital butwas always used as a military barracks.Officers’ houses and a guardhouse wereerected on the northern boundary between1810 and 1830 and remain as grade-II listedbuildings. A military cemetery lies along thewestern wall and is also protected. Therest of the western half of the site has beendemolished and replaced by The Churchills,Main gates,Admiralty Mews (listed)Main building,Admiralty Mews (listed)Former Officers’ Mess,Cavalry Barracks (listed)9

Jubilee Gates, Cavalry Barracks (listed)Converted building, Cavalry BarracksOriginal stables, Cavalry Barracks (listed)10Perimeter wall, Cavalry BarracksNew accommodation, Cavalry BarracksCavalry Court, Cavalry Barracksa high-density development of family homes. The eastern part of the site iscurrently allocated in the Dover District Local Plan 2002 (Policy AS3) forredevelopment and designated for B1/B2 employment, residential, communityand/or institutional uses, but detailed development plans still have to be agreed.Within this area, in the shadow of the original barracks chapel built in 1858, theRoyal Marines Memorial Garden was established marking the site of the IRAbombing in 1989. A fire in 2003 destroyed much of the chapel, but, fortunately, thegable wall which forms the southern boundary of the garden survived and adds tothe visual impact of this memorial. The garden, which is open as a memorial to allRoyal Marines and their families, is owned and maintained by Dover DistrictCouncil and was refurbished in 2004.In 1900, a new infirmary was opened on a former drill field to the west ofGladstone Road and was known as Infirmary Barracks. It was in use until 1988,when it was sold and redeveloped as Marine Mews. This is another high-densitydevelopment which includes terraces, houses, flats and sheltered accommodation.Only the perimeter walls have survived. The estate’s military origin is reflected insome of the design detail.General CharacterThe pedestrian route south from Deal Castle along Gladstone Road as far asCornwall Road passes all four of the former barracks. The perimeter brick walls,some as high as two and a half metres, are a distinctive feature along the route.There are glimpses of the original three-storey buildings in both Admiralty Mewsand Cavalry Barracks contrasting with the high-density development in MarineMews and The Churchills. The open areas associated with Cavalry Barracks comeinto view at the southern end of Gladstone Road. Mature trees, many as high asthe tallest buildings, are a feature along most of the site boundaries. Returning toDeal Castle along Cornwall Road, Dover Road and The Strand, this route is alongthe perimeter walls of Cavalry Barracks and Admiralty Mews. The imposingfacades, central pediments, cupolas and clocks on the range of buildings withinthese walls are easily visible through the ornate iron gates.The symmetry and orderly layout of the old barracks buildings and their somewhatforbidding and functional design are typical of 19 th century institutions such asbarracks, hospitals and prisons. These institutions have similar requirements fordisciplined living and training, and the walls are a reminder of the need, on the one

Royal Marines Memorial Garden,former North Barrackshand, to provide segregation and privacy insideand, on the other, to minimise the risk ofdesertion. Admiralty Mews and CavalryBarracks are operated as private estates.The original barracks acquired open space fortraining and sporting activities and much of ithas been retained. This provides some relieffrom the high density of housing in many partsof Lower Walmer away from the seafront.However, within Marine Mews and TheChurchills, no provision has been made forlandscaped communal areas of significant size. On all four developments some ofthe open spaces have been used for off-street parking.Design DetailScale - substantial detached and terraced properties of two or three storeyswith bungalows and single-storey utility buildings along perimeterwallsRoofsWallsDoorsWindowsGardensBoundariesGaragesStreets- pitched or hipped slate or red tile- mostly yellow stock brick with some decorative red brick overwindows, doors and in stringcourses; extensive use of Flemishbond- wooden doors, solid or half glazed- multi-pane Georgian sash- many properties opening onto pavement or street; front andrear gardens, if present, small and lack privacy; views over largeareas of common green land, for example, former parade grounds,drill and sports fields, and military cemeteries- high perimeter brick walls complemented by elaborate wroughtiron gates; low brick walls and railings between individualresidential units in some locations- most parking is in designated parking bays; garages incorporatedin some new properties- streets around older buildings straight and wide; narrower andwarren-like in areas of new buildingTownhouses, The ChurchillsSt. Michaels & All Angels, Cavalry BarracksPerimeter walls, The ChurchillsDetached houses, The ChurchillsOfficers Quarters, North Barracks (listed)Flats, Marine Mews11

5.3 St. Saviours AreaTilehung house, Liverpool RoadFormer library & cottages, Liverpool RoadDecorative features, Cambridge RoadLarge terrace & cottages, Liverpool RoadHistory/EvolutionEarly housing for local boatmen and those associated with the military was replacedaround the middle of the 19 th century by the comparatively more desirable terracedproperties that exist today. They were built to a standard layout, mostly asspeculative building for sale or rent.Commercial properties were established throughout the 19 th century along the eastside of Dover Road, usually consisting of a ground floor shop front with one tothree floors of accommodation above. These have been altered many times. One ofWalmer’s first hotels was also established during this period with additions beingmade to the building as demand increased. This property has now been convertedinto apartments. On Liverpool Road three substantial properties with significantdecorative features were built, with plainer terraced properties sandwiched inbetween. Infill sites, including old alleyways, were developed in the late 20 th centuryand have generally complemented and reflected the original design characteristicsof this area.General CharacterThis is a densely populated area developed in the shadow of imposing brick wallssurrounding the military site. It is an area full of interest and diversity with anirregular layout of streets, sympathetically developed old alleyways and a widevariety of properties. Parking facilities are limited leading to on-street parking andseverely congested roads. In recent years, many of the terraces with small andmedium-sized houses have been painted, either in white, pastel or bright shades.York Road and most of Campbell Road are part of the Seafront Conservation Area.12Former hotel, Dover Road Large terrace, Cambridge Road Commercial properties Dover Road Public house & shops, Dover Road

On Campbell Road there is a large, well established allotment area. This is a highlypopular community facility with a long waiting list for plots.Design DetailScale - mainly two-storey terraced houses with two or three bedrooms;larger medium-sized properties along Canada, North Barrack andUpper Gladstone Roads; occasional detached period propertiesespecially in Cambridge and Liverpool RoadsRoofs - mainly slate, some clay tiles; a few roof-lights; some dormers; redtiles with decorative ridge tiles and tall chimneys on periodpropertiesWalls - brick; some rendered, with colourwash and/or pebble dash; fewwith decorative brickwork; some upper storeys tile hungDoors - mainly opening onto the street, some with steps and wrought ironhand railings; larger properties with porches; plain fanlightsWindows - usually sash; some one or two-storey baysGardens - small gardens, if present; often pavedBoundaries - low brick or rendered walls to front gardens; three metre brick wallsforming boundaries with former military sitesGarages - few individual garages; one block of off-site garagesStreets - pavements on either one or both sides; on-street parking; manydouble yellow linesWest end, Canada RoadAllotments, Campbell RoadTerraces, Canada RoadSmall terraces, York RoadSensitive infill, York Road Infill terraces off Cambridge RoadSmall terraces, Campbell Road Colourful cottages, Campbell Road13

5.4 Blenheim Road AreaHistory/EvolutionBrick terrace, Blenheim RoadMilitary wall & terraces, Blenheim Roadfor the enjoyment of local people and visitors to Deal Castle. A Burma StarMemorial stands in the land near the entrance to the Garden on The Strand.Further development took place before World War II including the completion ofDouglas Terrace and Ravenscourt Road and the building of a commercial garage onGilford Road. A group of business properties built on the southeast side ofGladstone Road, against the walls of what is now Admiralty Mews have since beenconverted for residential use. In recent years backland development has occurred atOrchard Mews with access from Gladstone Road and the end of Granville Street.At the end of the 19th century as Deal expanded, speculative building occurredalong Gladstone Road, Blenheim Road and Granville Street, filling the areabetween Deal Castle and the railway line as far south as the military barracks. Thisexpansion took place around the two-metre high walls of the Captain’s Garden,dating from the 18 th century. This was the kitchen garden for the Captain of DealCastle and remains part of the Crown Estate, though no longer being cultivated.An initiative on the part of Walmer Parish Council, Deal Town Council andEnglish Heritage involves reclaiming the garden and redeveloping it as a quiet spaceGeneral CharacterHousing in the area consists primarily of Late Victorian terraces. Most retain theiroriginal decorative features though some rendered properties have been painted inpastel shades. Most of the properties sited near Deal Castle, The Captain’s Gardenand the listed buildings of Admiralty Mews face away from these significant sightsand are not greatly influenced by their presence. Some modern infill and backlanddevelopment has occurred. The streets are narrow with few facilities for off-streetparking and are severely congested with residents’ cars.14Colourful terrace, Gladstone RoadRendered terraces, Ravenscourt RoadTerrace bays, Gladstone RoadGate to Orchard Mews, Granville StreetDesign DetailScaleRoofsWallsDoorsWindowsGardensBoundariesGaragesStreets- two-storey terraces with few garages or parking facilities- pitched roofs of slate or moulded concrete tile; crested ridgescommon; shared chimneys- yellow/brown brick, some rendered and painted, some with reddecorative stringcourses, quoins and arches around windows anddoors- doors recessed in small porches under round brick arches- three-sided bay windows, flat roofed with one or two storeys ortwo-storey bays with gabled roofs, finials and carved bargeboards;some original horned sashes- small front gardens; some paved- low brick walls with gate pillars at front; high walls associated withhistoric properties near by- few garages; some off-site garage blocks- narrow streets with on-street parking

5.5 Mid-Dover Road AreaHistory/EvolutionSince the end of the 18 th century the A258, which becomes Dover Road onentering Walmer, has been the main link between the communities along the coastfrom Dover to Deal. In the latter half of the 19 th century, substantial propertieswere built along Dover Road to the north of Walmer Village. These were homesfor retired military personnel and seaside holiday homes for wealthy Londonfamilies. When built they would have had unobstructed views of the ships anchoredin the Downs. Similar properties exist at the west end of Walmer Castle Road.While this development was taking place in Upper Walmer, similar properties werebeing built in Lower Walmer. Archery Square, originally a subscription gardenknown as The Green Park, was established east of Dover Road near the barracksand well-appointed leasehold properties were built around it. This was a green areawith a two metre wide path around the edge shielded from the street by shrubbery.Archery and croquet were available. After 1875, tennis became fashionable andother activities were relegated to a secondary position. In 1883, the leasehold onThe Green Park was purchased by one of the residents to protect the park from thethreat of development and the Walmer Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club wasfounded. In 1960, the club bought the freehold to the site.At the end of the 19 th century substantial semi-detached housing, followed byindividually designed detached housing, began spreading south from the barracksarea along Dover Road and Balfour Road. In 1900, Herschell Square, at the northend of Balfour Road was also marketed as a speculative development around acentral green park. Some large semi-detached properties were built facing onto thesquare, but other properties faced Herschell Road East and Balfour Road and theconcept of a pleasant Edwardian square was lost. In the 1960s, a variety ofbungalows were built on the central green completing the loss of the original designconcept.Before the end of the 20th Century the two communities of Upper and LowerWalmer had merged as a result of development along Dover Road, Balfour Roadand Salisbury Road. A number of small businesses were established within thisresidential area encouraged by the large amount of traffic along Dover Road. Anotable landmark along Dover Road is the Baptist Church, established in 1904.General CharacterThis area developed on the gradually rising land between the military barracks andthe original village of Walmer on Drum Hill. The varying scale and architecturaldesign of the properties combined with the green open spaces, front gardens andsignificant protected trees define its character.Archery Square and Marke Wood reflect the desire of the more affluent for thebenefits of green open spaces and opportunities for recreational activities. InArchery Square there are substantial properties of two or three storeys making themaximum use of the land available. On the South side most properties are of greystone and yellow brick, some having extensive decorative features. Victorian tiledpaths lead from the pavement up five or six steps to the front doors. In contrast,Land for Marke Wood on Dover Road was purchased in 1927 by the daughter ofAgnes Marke Wood, fulfilling her wish to provide ‘a recreational area with playingfields for the children and people of Walmer’. It was stipulated that the groundshould be kept to a ‘meadow type’ and no building should take place except as‘pavilions and shelter for recreational purposes’. Dover District Council nowadministers the land in trust. The purchase also included land on the west side ofDover Road and along Liverpool Road, which was designated for residential use.Covenants controlled what could be built.Football being played in Marke Wood15

Bungalows, Salisbury RoadFormer vicarage, east side upper Dover RoadDetached house, upper Dover RoadDetached house, east side upper Dover RoadSemi-detached houses, Herschell SquareLarge Semi-detached houses, Herschell SquareSemi-detached house, Balfour RoadDetached houses, east side upper Dover RoadEdwardian bungalow, Warwick RoadPebble dashed bungalow, Dover Road16Mixed properties, Balfour RoadEdwardian house, Dover RoadSubstantial property, Warwick Road

all the properties on the north side are rendered and painted white, some withwrought iron balconies. The listed terrace at the junction with Liverpool Roadfeatures a Dutch gable, a steep red tiled roof and dormer windows. Most ofArchery Square is part of the Walmer Seafront Conservation Area.Around Marke Wood, individually designed detached and semi-detached housesand bungalows occupy large plots. Many have interesting architectural features andsome have high brick walls giving a feeling of seclusion. The properties benefitfrom the presence of trees in the park. Those on Warwick Road enjoy a feeling ofremoteness from traffic.There remain fine examples of the distinctive 19th century properties on DoverRoad near Walmer Village. They include two and three storey terraces anddetached properties with distinctive decorative features –turrets, balconies, ironrailings and grand door cases. Most now have extensions and alterations, manyhaving been converted to multiple occupancy.Between the two areas of substantial terraces and houses described above, thehomes vary in scale and reflect the changing social needs and architectural designsthat were evident throughout the 20 th century. There are two or three storeydetached and semi-detached properties mixed with bungalows and chaletbungalows, most with garages. They are linked harmoniously by the use ofcommon materials and similar design details. They are set on wide roads with greenverges and have cultivated front gardens bounded by low brick walls. The playingfields on Salisbury Road form the southwest boundary of this area.Design DetailScale - terraces, semi-detached and detached houses of two or three storeysand bungalows, generally of individual design; early properties withdistinctive Edwardian featuresRoofs - pitched tile/slate roofs; some hipped; chimneys common; someridge tiles, finials and decorative bargeboardsWalls - red brick walls; some polychromatic brick/plaster decorations;pebble dash common in early bungalowsDoors - doors set within arched porches; Edwardian glazed doors withglazed side panels common in houses and bungalowsWindows - two-storey bay windows in larger properties in north Dover Roadand Balfour Road; original horned sash windows evident; bayscommon in bungalows; casement windows in later propertiesGardens - older properties have small front gardens; larger gardens onWarwick RoadBoundaries - generally low brick walls; mixture of brick walls, hedges and boardfencing on Herschell Square and Warwick Road; higher walls onWarwick RoadGarages - no garages on site for earlier properties on Dover Road and BalfourRoad; integral garages and hardstanding with later properties;garaging to properties on Archery Square accessed from serviceroads at the rearStreets - wide streets; trees on grass verges and in front gardens; Victorianstyle street lights on Archery Square; traffic heavy on Dover Roadand Salisbury Road; some traffic calming measures in placeTurreted terraces, Walmer Castle Road Crenellated bays, south Archery Square Dutch gable, Archery Square (listed) Substantial terrace, north Archery Square17

5.6 Downs Road AreaTerraces, Cornwall RoadTerraces & Drill Field, Cornwall RoadTerrace, south Downs RoadHard standing, south Downs RoadHistory/EvolutionAt the end of the 19 th century, farmland between the barracks and Upper Walmeradjacent to the railway line became available for development. Speculative buildingof modest two storey Victorian terraces began along Cornwall Road and continuedalong Downs Road. By 1935 building was complete on these roads except forsome bungalows and terraces built at the south end of Downs Road and in OwenSquare after World War II.Land between Downs Road and Dover road was acquired by Deal BoroughCouncil at the end of World War II for a housing estate centred on ChurchillAvenue.General CharacterThis is a high-density residential area situated near the three schools in the parish.Though originally leasehold properties, most of the late Victorian terraces onCornwall Road and Downs Road are privately owned and many alterations havebeen made.Housing centred on Churchill Avenue consists of two-storey terraces and semidetachedhouses with small front gardens. Central green areas with trees andflowerbeds along a curved road enhance this area. Many of these properties are alsoprivately owned. Most extensions and alterations have maintained the original styleand colour scheme.The lack of off-street parking leads to congestion throughout the area.18Terrace, west side mid-Downs Road Enclosed arched doorways, Downs Road Early terrace, north Downs Road

Design DetailScaleRoofsWalls- two-storey terraces and semi-detached houses; a few single-storeyterraces and bungalows- pitched roofs of slate or red moulded concrete tiles- brick of varying colours; some with decorative brick arches onwindows and doors and a decorative stringcourse; some rendered,half-rendered or first floor fronts with hanging tiles- properties on the Churchill Avenue estate - flat-fronted, rendered andpainted cream with moulded red roof tiles on sills, porches and thewalls connecting adjacent propertiesSensitive extension, Churchill AvenueAdded porches, Wellesley AvenueDoors- many doors recessed in arched porches, some enclosed with loss oforiginal decorative features; many doors on flat-fronted propertiesenclosed with porches extending into the front gardenWindows - three-sided bay windows of one or two storeys, sometimes renderedor with hanging tiles; bays in early properties with Victorian hornedsashes; bays in newer properties with casement windows; flat-frontedproperties on the Churchill Avenue estate with casement windowsGardens- small front gardens; many front walls removed and hard standingformedBoundaries - low brick walls with iron gates onto pavement; some rendered, somewith railings; low brick walls on Churchill Avenue onto commongreen area; two metre high rendered walls with red tile topping linkadjacent terracesCentral green, Churchill AvenueSingle-storey terrace, Churchill AvenueGarages- few off-street parking facilities in the areaStreets- Cornwall Road and Downs Road relatively straight and wide; heavytraffic, either from parts of Deal to the Dover Road or to the schoolson Gladstone Road and at the end of Downs Road; Churchill Avenueand Dorset Gardens narrow and curve through communal greenspace containing flowerbeds and trees; extensive on-street parking1950s Housing, Churchill AvenueLinking walls, Palmerston Avenue19

5.7 Liverpool Road AreaHistory/EvolutionIn the 19 th century this area consisted of large green spaces and meadowland on theborders of four large estates – St. Clare, Roselands, The Shrubbery and The Lawn.These estates were established taking full advantage of the topography, being builton the higher ground giving the owners commanding views across their estatesover meadowland and farmland to the sea. At the beginning of the 20 th century,development began on the perimeter of these estates reflecting the gradual changeto manageable sized properties in reasonable grounds. These developments weresensitively sited to retain the spacious character and appearance of the area, usingthe landscape features to their full advantage. Development on this scale continueduntil the end of the century.Substantial residence, St. Clare RoadSt Clare Road from Liverpool RoadIn recent years retirement accommodation has become available in the area withthe conversion of some of these larger properties. One of the more interestingdevelopments was the retirement provision made by Trinity House in 1957.Quality terraced bungalows were built on the edges of landscaped gardens enablingresidents to take full advantage of the views and spacious surroundings.Several older distinctive properties on the west side of Walmer Castle are listed.The only other listed building in the area is Leelands – the main house of one of theoriginal four estates (St Clare).Retirement accommodation, St. Clare RoadGardens at Trinity Homes, St Clare RoadGeneral CharacterThis is an area of substantial, individually designed houses set among mature treesand large gardens to the west of Walmer Castle, establishing a spacious setting forthis landmark building. These properties are within walking distance of the ParishChurch of St Mary’s and the village shops. Panoramic views into open countrysideand out to sea remain a notable feature.20Leelands, Grams Road (listed)View to west along Grams RoadHawksdown, which occupies a large acreage set on top of sloping countryside, isthe only gated private estate in Upper Walmer. A small number of houses werebuilt before World War II, but many more were added after the war. Access isavailable at the west end via Dover Road onto Hawksdown Road. At the east end,a large five-bar gate restricts access onto the narrow private roads with grass vergeseither side, frequently protected with stones or logs from unnecessary parking.Mature trees, hedges and some closeboard fences contribute to privacy.

Design DetailDetails on walls, doors and windows were often difficult to determine because oflarge walls, hedges and garden planting. Noticeable were the variety and highquality of design detail displayed.Scale - individually designed detached properties on substantial plots; mostlylarge two-storey houses; some substantial bungalowsRoofs - pitched tile/slate roofs; some multi-gabled with dormers; most withchimneysWalls - red brick; some rendered and some pebble dashed; some decorativerendering or hanging tiles on first floorDoors - sturdy wooden doors with minimal glazing; variety of porches,becoming elaborate on listed properties of 19 th CenturyWindows - in keeping with the age of the property from Georgian sash aroundWalmer Castle to casement windows of wood, metal and UVPCGardens - large green plots with mature trees and hedges; some open plangardens in newer properties; slope of the land utilised to maximiseviews to sea or rural landscapesBoundaries - greater privacy for older properties with high hedges, brick or rubblewalls and closeboard fencingGarages - all with garages and hard standing, often for two or three cars; manysecured by gates and accessed by long drivesStreets - generally wide with pavements or wide grass vergesBungalow in large garden, Liverpool RoadPost WW II house, HawksdownPrivate tree-lined road, HawksdownSubstantial property, Granville RoadEarly 20th century house, HawksdownSt Clare RoadEntrance to Hawksdown off Dover RoadLong green driveway, Liverpool RoadLiverpool House, Liverpool Road (listed)21

5.8 Upper Walmer VillageLarge house in village, Dover Road Large house in village, Dover Road Rubble brick house, Dover RoadPugin designed chapel, Dover Road (listed)East side Dover Road south of villageShops in original Walmer villageDutch gable on old terrace, Dover RoadLarge house, Church Street & Dover Road West side Dover Road near Church Street Wellington House, Dover Road West side Dover Road south of village22

History/EvolutionThe original village of Walmer, situated at the top of Drum Hill, grew up aroundthe Manor House with its associated farm and Old St Mary’s Church, both built inthe early 12 th century. Cottages for workers and tradesmen soon followed and byVictorian times this small agricultural community had become a thriving villagecontaining the Manor House (Walmer Court), the farm and the church togetherwith a school, shops, inns, a large brewery and a convent with chapel.Of all its enterprises, the brewery, originally Tudor, had the most significant impacton the area. In 1816 Edmund Thompson acquired this small brewery and operatedit as Thompson & Sons. In 1867 John Matthews bought the business and greatlyexpanded and modernised it, although it always kept the title of ThompsonBrewery. The maltings, bottling plants, brew house and stables with a blacksmitheventually covered a very large area in the village and created much employment.Further houses were bought in Dover Road for use as offices and to house staff,and a long terrace of brick cottages was built in Belmont to house more workers.In 1974 production ceased at the brewery and it was demolished in 1981 to makeway for the housing development on Downlands. The old bell once housed in thebelfry at the brewery rests in the last remaining public house in the village, nowaptly named the Thompson Bell.Across Dover Road from the brewery was a large builder’s yard owned by theDenne family, reported to have been in the brick making and building trade forover four hundred years. They built the seawall in Ramsgate, municipal buildingsand homes all over East Kent and supplied bricks to the Admiralty for local use.Wellington House on Dover Road, owned by Mr. William Denne, was sold in 1887but the adjacent builder’s yard was retained by the business. This yard was closedat the end of the 20 th century and developed as St. Margaret’s Close.The convent of the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary moved to Walmer in1875 because of persecution in Poland and Germany. It occupied Roselands, anestate of seven acres with a large Georgian house. Additions were made to thehouse to accommodate the convent. The Sisters’ Choir and the Gothic Chapel ofthe Sacred Heart, designed by Pugin, were built in 1890. The convent, an enclosedorder, left Walmer in 1971 because of increasing traffic noise on Dover Road. Mostof the convent was demolished in 1982 and its land was used for housing onRoselands and Poet’s Walk. However, its walls and the chapel were retained. Thechapel’s impressive tower, rising above a group of well established trees on DoverRoad, creates a distinctive landmark.The usage and design of many other buildings in the village have altered over thecenturies. Some of the shops, the schoolhouse and two of the inns are nowconverted into dwellings. The original ancient cottages were extended and updatedin the 18 th century and encased in Georgian shells. Some of these older housesincorporate sturdy old timber salvaged from ships wrecked on the Goodwin Sands.General CharacterWalmer Village continues to be a focal point for those living in Upper Walmer withthe churches and remaining shops, housed in Victorian buildings, offering all theessentials expected in a village environment. The surrounding houses are mostlyGeorgian and Victorian. Their different heights, widths, roof pitches and windowpatterns, haphazardly juxtaposed, create an interesting variety protected now as aconservation area.Although there are attractive houses in the shopping area, most of the listedbuildings are in the Church Street area. Gothic House, with its profusion ofwooden detailing, and The Rattling Cat, once a coaching inn, are on Dover Roadnear the east end of Church Street. In Church Street itself, there are some finesubstantial 18 th century houses with Georgian features such as railings, multi-panedwindows and grand door cases. Off Church Street is Green Lane, a narrow countrybyway with small Victorian cottagesnestling amongst variously shapedhedges. Significant landmarks can befound at the culmination of theconservation area on Church Street.Old St Mary’s Church remains andservices are still held lit only bycandlelight. The ruins of the originalManor House are now an AncientMonument. Walmer Court, with its smallflint gatehouse and long wooded drive, hasnow been converted into flats.Gothic House, Dover Road (listed)23

Gatehouse, Walmer CourtChurch Street at Green LaneFalkland House, Church StreetWalmer Court, Church Street (listed)24Mainly Georgian house, Church StreetWingrove & Adelaide House (listed)Old Bakery, Church StreetVine Cottage, Church Street (listed)Design DetailScale - small, medium and large terraced and detached properties,predominantly Georgian and VictorianRoofs - pitched, hipped or half-hipped; slate or plain clay tiled; Gothicstyling to some gables; one eye-catching Dutch gableWalls - Georgian red/brown bricks or yellow bricks; some rendered andpainted light colours; a few painted bricks; a few rubble brick wallswith red brick edgingDoors - mostly Georgian and Victorian panelled; some with canopies; somefanlights and door cases with carved brackets or pillars; some withsteps up from the pavementWindows - multi-paned Georgian sash, Victorian sash; shop display windowsGardens - some properties front directly onto pavement; some small/mediumfront gardensBoundaries - brick or rendered walls of various heights; variously shaped hedgesalong Green LaneGarages - garages and off road parking minimalStreet - Dover Road, a busy trunk road, narrow in parts; remaining streetsvery narrow and unadopted or narrow with on-street parking

5.9 Walmer Station AreaHistory/EvolutionThe railway from Deal to Dover was completed in 1881 and a cluster of Victorianhouses, a stationmaster’s house and a public house were soon built around thestation at Walmer. During the 20 th century small parcels of land between thestation and Walmer Village were sold off for development.General CharacterStation Road, Court Road and Mayers Road contain houses from every decade ofthe 20 th century and display a diversity of styles and materials. The area is enhancedby a grouping of mature trees at the east end of Station Road and to the south arepublic footpaths and locally valued views across agricultural land to the windmill atRipple. These provide an attractive transition from the predominantly developedparish of Walmer to the open countryside.Design DetailsScale - generally small to medium two-storey terraced, semi-detached anddetached propertiesRoofs - pitched with slate or red/brown tiles; some dormersWalls - various brick; some rendered, painted, weatherboarded or tile hungWindows - wide variety including Victorian sash, Neo-Georgian casement andpicture windows; some baysGardens - small to medium front gardensBoundaries - mostly low brick walls, some with hedges or fencesGarages - garages on many properties; mainly adequate parking; no garages oroff-road parking on Mayers RoadStreets - generally wide; roads in station area narrow and congested; limitedparking at the station for rail usersVictorian terrace, Court RoadTrees and green area, Station RoadDetached houses, Court RoadSemi-detached houses, Station RoadTerrace off Mayers RoadPanoramic view into the countryside Semi-detached houses, Station Road Terrace, west end of Station Road25

5.10 Modern Cul-de-sacsPositioned for solar panels, Whiteacre Dr.Bungalows, Greenacre DriveHouses, flats and bungalows, Poets WalkBungalows, Badgers RiseCurving drive and trees, Blake CloseBungalows, Menzies AvenueSemi-detached houses, Church StreetHouses, St. Marys RoadSemi-detached houses, Meryl Gardens26Former military housing, York and Albany CloseChalet bungalows, Willingdon PlaceDutch Gable, Kingsland Gardens

History and EvolutionFrom 1960 to the present there have been a large number of cul-de-sacs formed offthe roads already present on the 1906 map of the parish. The land used for suchdevelopments was formerly part of large 19th century estates, Walmer Court Farmnear the railway station, the Convent of the Visitation and Thompson Brewery.Smaller plots, which had been orchards, a fire station and commercial nurseries,were also developed. Developers included London City Council/Greater LondonCouncil - under their ‘Retire by the Sea’ scheme for the overspill of senior citizens,the Ministry of Defence - supplying family quarters for the Royal Marines, andprivate contractors. These cul-de-sacs are concentrated in Upper Walmer wherethe majority of the land was available.General CharacterMost of the cul-de-sacs contain houses or bungalows constructed with commoncharacteristics related to the materials and styles in vogue at the time they werebuilt. The more visually interesting cul-de-sacs have a mix of bungalows, houses orterraces with harmonious variation in design details. One fortunate sharedcharacteristic is the abundance of mature trees. Most of the trees from earlierproperties have been retained and new trees have been planted in common greenareas.Two estates display characteristics that mirror design details in older propertiesnearby and fit harmoniously into their site. Badger’s Rise, at the junction of GramsRoad and Liverpool Road, consists of substantial bungalows with very large multigabledroof spaces mirroring the roofline of an older two-storey terrace across theroad. In Kingsland Gardens, the two-storey terraces facing Dover Road haveDutch gables similar to an older property in the conservation area nearby.However, a number of other cul-de-sacs feature standard pattern-book house stylesseen in similar estates all over the country.Design DetailScale - detached or semi-detached two-storey houses, bungalows or chaletbungalows; some two-storey terracesRoofs - pitched concrete tile roofs; some L-shaped with gables facing forward; a fewgabled dormers; chimneys not prominentWalls - most red brick, some yellow; some rendered; hanging tile or plasticweatherboarding common at first floor level in front; mock Tudor fronts onsome properties in pattern-book estatesDoors - some wooden, but mostly modern UPVC, with glazing; glass panels arounddoors; protective overhangs or enclosed porches commonWindows - most white casement windows; large central pane common; somereplacement with multi-pane Georgian windows; some leaded glass casementwindows in pattern-book estatesGardens - generally open plan, broken by beds and low shrubs between properties;some grassy common islands retained; mature trees from older demolishedproperties retained and protectedBoundaries - generally none in front; a few low brick walls, hedges or small woodenfences; closeboard fences to rear visible from streetGarages - all with hard standing; most with garages, some attached; garages for two orthree cars plus brick hard standing common in pattern-book estatesStreets - roads reasonably wide and short; some curved and branchingLarge front gardens along Dover RoadOn Dover Road, opposite the entrance to Gothic Close, are a group of housessimilar to ones found in these modern cul-de-sacs but unlike the other houses onDover Road. They are situated on what was the main entrance to The Shrubberyestate redeveloped in the 1970s. They are fronted by an enormous well-tendedopen garden space that makes a significant contribution to the street scene alongDover Road.Bungalows, The ShrubberyMature trees & bungalows, Channel Lea27

7 Green SpacesTrees, Channel LeaTrees, walls & hedges, Walmer Castle RdFrom the beach towards Liverpool RoadTrees planted in a modern cul-de-sac30Trees near Walmer CastleMature trees, St. Clare RoadFormal garden, Marke WoodFrom Hawkshill Freedown to HawksdownWalmer is rich in green spaces, large and small, and although not all are open to thepublic, they add to the pleasant leafiness that is one of the characteristics of theparish.The most scenic open space is along the seashore promenade. At the north end ofWalmer the promenade borders the large grassed area known as Walmer Green.On the shore side is a shingle beach where fishing boats and the dinghies of theDowns Sailing Club stand. Seats are sited at frequent intervals along thepromenade, which continues to Kingsdown. Where the grassed area ends, thepathway becomes known as Wellington Parade and is bounded on both sides bywildflowers and grasses. It passes Walmer Castle with its extensive and attractiveopen spaces and Garden, all of which are open to the public. The promenade endswith the seashore housing on the southern boundary of Walmer.Hawkshill Freedown has been designated a Site of Nature Conservation Interest(SNCI). It is an area of open chalk downland enjoyed by walkers and natureenthusiasts, which is rich in wildlife and rises inland southwards and westwards ofWalmer Castle. Views from these heights encompass open farmland, the EnglishChannel, the Goodwin Sands and, on a clear day, the coast of France. A footpathdescends from here into a small valley – The Glen, an area of mature gardens andlarge trees.Although the former Royal Marines Barracks and School of Music retain their highwalls, their green spaces add to the attractiveness of the parish.Surrounded by mature trees, Marke Wood Recreation Ground is an extensive flatgreen area, which includes a well maintained formal garden.As well as these large green areas there are a number of significant ‘green wedges’throughout the community that enhance the green character of the parish.In the nineteenth century, the planting of trees in thegrounds of, and in the land surrounding, the largerhouses transformed the appearance of the parish.Trees remain a treasured part of our environment.They flourish particularly well in Upper Walmerwhere the downland provides protection fromprevailing winds. Many of these trees and othergarden features were retained during re-developmentto give the area an air of maturity.From Hawkshill Freedown

8 Leisure AreasThere is a wide range of provision for leisurepursuits in Walmer Parish. Most of the seashoreleisure pursuits are quiet and informal – seafishing off the beach, dinghy sailing, birdwatching, dog walking, children’s games, kiteflying and astronomy.The seashore promenade is part of the SaxonObserving the Sun, Walmer beachShore Way and the White Cliffs Country Trail.The recently installed cycle way along the route is part of the Cliffs and CastlesCycle Track and National Cycle Route 1.At the north end of Walmer Green is a walled recreational area containing achildren’s paddling pool, putting green and crazy golf. The Royal MarinesMemorial Bandstand hosts popular Sunday afternoon concerts during the summer.This is where the travelling fair sets up for two weeks and the Church Parish Fayreis held.Playing fields for sporting activities are attached to Walmer School, The Downs CEPrimary School and the Parochial School. At Archery Square there is a longestablished tennis and croquet club. Walmer has a cricket club with its own groundoff Court Road, and at the Drill Field in the South Barracks Conservation Area areplaying fields used and maintained by a local rugby club as well as a toddlers’ playarea and a floodlit ball court. Facilities at Marke Wood Recreation Ground includea children’s play area, hard tennis courts and several football pitches, which serve ascricket pitches in summer. A small pavilion with public toilets and changing roomsadd to the amenities in this leisure area.There are three allotment areas within the Parish - each providing space for thosewho enjoy spending their time in the cultivation of flowers and vegetables.Cyclists, Promenade on Walmer GreenRugby, Walmer Drill FieldLighted ball court, Walmer Drill FieldKite surfingPaddling Pool, Walmer GreenCroquet, Archery SquareSwimmers on Walmer beachWalkers, Hawkshill FreedownDowns Sailing Club, Walmer beachFishing from Walmer beach31

9 Traffic and Transporton The Strand by the building of protruding crossing points, while providingwelcome assistance for pedestrians crossing the road, has reduced the availableparking in this commercial area and adversely affected businesses. Traffic controlmeasures have also been introduced on Salisbury Road – unfortunately thesemeasures have diverted traffic onto other congested routes and into two very busyintersections with Dover Road.Congestion due to loading, The StrandGreen parking, Dorset GardensPublic consultation on the introduction of such traffic calming and controlmeasures has been minimal in the past. This Design Statement urges that localresidents are given the opportunity to comment on any future such proposalsbefore they are implemented to ensure that adequate attention is paid to localconcerns, traffic patterns and problem areas.Pavement parking, Canada RoadCongestion on Mayers RoadCongestion and parking problems exist in the older areas of Walmer where streetsare narrow and there are no garage facilities. The limited number of exits from theredeveloped military sites has increased congestion by channelling all traffic ontoCanada Road which is already busy. Therefore, this Design Statement welcomesthe requirement for a traffic impact assessment to be carried out for any proposedredevelopment of the North Barracks, as set out in Policy AS3 of the DoverDistrict Local Plan (2002).Traffic can greatly affect the quality of life in a community and planning decisionsaffect traffic. Residents of Walmer want a free but safe flow of traffic, safecrossings of major intersections for pedestrians and cyclists, adequate parkingfacilities in commercial areas to help the survival of local businesses and safe andattractive cycleway and public footpath provision.Dover Road and Kingsdown Road, both feeding into The Strand, are the onlymajor north-south roads through the parish. Dover Road and The Strand link thetowns of Dover and Deal, and Dover Road is the arterial road with which all themajor east – west feeder roads link. These feeder roads funnel all the traffic fromWalmer and Deal onto Dover Road with the result that intersections on DoverRoad and The Strand are difficult to negotiate and dangerous. Traffic controlmeasures have been introduced on both these roads. The creation of parking bays32There are limited public transport services serving the parish of Walmer. The parishhas a railway station in Upper Walmer with, on average, hourly services. Limitedparking facilities are available at the station and in the interests of sustainability andencouraging increased train use it is hoped that opportunities to increase andimprove such station parking will be taken. Rail connections are however slowgiven the circuitous rail network linking Walmer with the rest of the county. It ishoped that current improvements under way on the rail tunnels between Dover andFolkestone will enable Walmer to partake in the new high-speed rail connectionssoon to be made available elsewhere in the county.Bus services cover only limited parts of the parish and make travel within Walmerand to Deal difficult. There are also limited bus services connecting Walmer toother areas of southeast Kent where essential services are provided. Theselimitations give rise to concern within the community.

10 Street FurnitureThe design and dimensions of, and the materials used in, much of our streetfurniture are specified by central and local government. Bus shelters, refuse bins,street lighting and floral display tubs are therefore, generally, starkly utilitarian innature.Commercial advertising in the community, other than shop fronts, is limited to theLocal Council sponsored bus shelters. Information signs for clubs and other noncommercialorganisations tend to be informative and sympathetic to theirsurroundings.There are other examples of more traditional and attractive items – such asVictorian lamp standards, wall-mounted post boxes and “red” telephone kiosks.The environment is also enhanced by the presence of a number of wooden, andoften memorial, seats along the whole of the seafront boundary of the parish. Ingeneral, our roads, footpaths and cycle ways are well signposted.33

11 Design PrinciplesNational Planning Policy Statement 12 : Local Development Frameworks (2004)supports the inclusion of supplementary planning documents, including designstatements, within local development frameworks provided that such documentshave been prepared by the community and are consistent with national, regionaland local planning policies. The Walmer Design Statement has been prepared (asset out in Section 12) by the community of the parish of Walmer to supplement thepolicies of the Dover District Local Plan (2002) and the emerging Kent andMedway Structure Plan which places great emphasis on quality design. Whereapplicable cross-referencing is made to the Local Plan, as well as to policies andguidance of Kent Design (2000).The purpose of Village Design Statements is to capture the detailed designcharacteristics of a settlement, and, once adopted by the local planning authority, toact as a tool to manage change, whether that change is major new development orcumulative small-scale alterations, to the built and natural environments of the areato which the Design Statement applies._________As set out on preceding pages the built and natural environments of the parish ofWalmer have been shaped over many centuries by the presence of the sea and themilitary. It is important therefore that such maritime and military heritage,fundamental to the character of Walmer, is acknowledged, preserved and enhancedin any developments in the parish.WDS 1 : Development should be consistent with the policies of the DoverDistrict Local Plan (2002) and the principles and objectives of KentDesign (2000) and should acknowledge, preserve or enhance thebuilt and natural heritage of the parish of Walmer. For thepurposes of this and each of the following Design Principles,‘development’ refers to both new development and alterations toexisting buildings.________________________________________________________________The Walmer Design Statement divides the parish into 10 Character Areas on thebasis of the design characteristics particular to each area, including the threeconservation areas in Walmer, and the historical evolution of each of these areas.Such delineations are designed to supplement Policies DD1 and HE2 of the DoverLocal Plan by establishing the spatial and visual characteristics of each area, andObjective 6 of Kent Design by setting out contextual design details.34WDS 2 : Any future development in the parish should respect the origins,and reflect strongly the character, appearance and design detailsof the Character Area (as delineated in Section 5) in which it issituated.________________________________________________________________The scale, materials, design, density, and boundary treatments characteristic of allareas of the parish are described in this Design Statement for each Character Area.In summary, properties in Walmer are predominantly two storey, with no buildingsin the parish exceeding four storeys in height. Roofs are pitched and of slate or tile,often with crested ridges. Walls are of brick, sometimes rendered and painted, withuse made of decorative stringcourses and detailing around doors and windows.Some limited tile-hanging and weatherboarding does occur at first floor level, aswell as canopied balconies in the seafront area, but these materials are not common.Windows are sash or casement in form, with one or two storey bays a distinctivefeature in a number of the Character Areas. Many properties in Walmer frontstraight onto the pavement and front gardens, where they do occur, are usuallysmall and bounded by low brick walls. The main exceptions to this pattern are theformer military sites which are bounded by high brick perimeter walls and elaborategates and the larger properties in the environs of Walmer Castle which are set inspacious grounds, bordered by high hedges, fences and brick walls. More recenthousing developments are open plan in layout.Certain design features and materials are not prevalent in Walmer.Weatherboarding, including plastic weatherboarding, stone facades, and brickpavior road surfacing for example are not typical and are therefore consideredinappropriate.WDS 3 : The scale, materials and boundary treatments used in developmentshould be appropriate to their surroundings and the design detailsof the Character Area in which the development is proposed.Harmonious variety in design details within developments isencouraged to maintain the tradition of visually interestingstreetscapes which is a characteristic of Walmer.WDS 4 : In accordance with Principle 6.6 of Kent Design (2000), a confusedapplication of architectural styles or inappropriate historicimitation should be avoided.________________________________________________________________

Walmer is a predominantly densely developed parish and developmentopportunities are therefore in the main limited to alterations to existing propertiesand to small sites and ‘infill’ schemes. As a result the sensitive integration of newdevelopment into its surroundings is crucial and the community supports PoliciesDD5 and DD6 of the Dover Local Plan (2002).As set out in Section 5.7 a lower density of development prevails in the vicinity ofWalmer Castle and its associated Historic Parks and Gardens with the townscapeand landscape of this area characterised by large, individually designed houses set inspacious gardens with views out over open countryside and to the sea. Suchdevelopment serves to enhance the setting of Walmer Castle and provides anappropriate context for this nationally important landmark building. The characterof much of the seafront of Walmer together with Hawkshill Common, ArcherySquare and Marke Wood also provide important areas of open space in thelandscape of the parish. Mature trees are a welcome characteristic of manystreetscapes in Walmer including along the perimeters of the former military sites,on the east side of Dover Road at the southern entrance to Walmer, the area westof Walmer Castle and in Upper Walmer.WDS 5 : The density of new development should have regard to thatprevailing in its locality and to the local pattern of streets andspaces. The quieter, less densely developed character of thetownscape around Walmer Castle and along the seafront should beprotected and respected.WDS 6 : When development occurs every effort should be made to retainmature trees where they exist and to augment them withappropriate planting of indigenous species.________________________________________________________________As set out in Section 5.1, Walmer’s long coastline is visually, socially andenvironmentally integral to the character of the parish. The protection of theseashore environment, the shingle beach, wildflowers and natural grasses, thefootpaths and cycleways and the uninterrupted views out to the open sea aretherefore of considerable importance to the community. The environmentalsignificance of the seashore is reflected in its designation as a Site of NatureConservation Interest and the area around Walmer Castle being designated an areaof Undeveloped Coast in the Dover Local Plan. The shoreline in front of WalmerCastle is currently ‘dark’ and thus of importance for astronomical observation.Much of the seafront also falls within the Lower Walmer Seafront ConservationArea. As detailed in Section 8, Walmer seafront also provides opportunities for arange of leisure pursuits.WDS 7 : Development in Walmer should respect the SNCI, UndevelopedCoast and Lower Walmer Conservation Area designations alongthe coastline of the parish. No development or planting should bepermitted that would obstruct or restrict the open character of theWalmer seafront and public access to the beach and coastal publicfootpaths and cycleways. Care should be taken to preserve thecurrent ‘dark’ shoreline in front of Walmer Castle due to itssignificance for astronomical observation.________________________________________________________________The boundaries of Walmer are clearly defined by the coastline and the railway lineto the east and west, while to the north the parish merges into the town of Deal.The southern boundary of the parish marks the transition to open countryside,much of which lies within the North Downs Special Landscape Area (SLA). Thisrural edge is an important element of the visual character and setting of Walmerand the community therefore supports policy CO3 of the Local Plan in seeking toensure that priority is given to the conservation and enhancement of the naturalbeauty of the landscape over other planning considerations in this SLA .WDS 8 : The layout and design of any development affecting the southernedge of Walmer should demonstrate a suitable, carefullylandscaped transition with the adjacent open countryside and theNorth Downs Special Landscape Area. Development that wouldhave an adverse affect on the rural setting of the parish and thelandscape character of the North Downs Special Landscape Areashould not be permitted. Development on or adjacent to thesouthern boundary of Walmer parish must be appropriate inlocation, and incorporate design and associated features andmeasures to minimise visual impact.________________________________________________________________35

The densely developed character of much of the parish, with the majority ofresidential properties dating from periods when off-street parking provision wasnot required or provided, has given rise to particular problems regarding parkingfacilities and traffic congestion in certain areas of the town. These include CanadaRoad, Gladstone Road, North Barrack Road, Walmer Castle Road and MayersRoad. Problems have been exacerbated where planning permission has beengranted for mews or backland developments. Parking opportunities have beenreduced to allow access into such sites. Inadequate parking facilities in somedevelopments have led to increases in on-street parking and traffic levels.WDS 9: The provision of adequate parking facilities is an important elementof the design and planning of new development. Given thedensely developed character of the parish of Walmer all planningapplications should demonstrate adequate off-street parkingprovision. Evidence should be provided to show that the impactof the additional traffic resulting from such new developments onthe amenity of surrounding properties and residents has beenaddressed and minimised.WDS 10 : In accordance with principle 5.9 of Kent Design (2000) adequatelinkages to the existing networks of footpaths and cycleways ofthe parish (including the planned cycle routes set out in theDistrict Council’s Cycling Action Plan) should be an integral partof new developments to encourage the use of non-vehicular formsof transport.________________________________________________________________Walmer, in common with many other parishes has seen an increase in street signageand furniture in recent years giving rise to a visual, and physical cluttering of thepublic realm. By Design (CABE 2000) advises that co-ordinating the design ofstreetscape avoids clutter and confusion. This includes all elements of the streetscene including signage, lighting, railings, litter bins, paving, seating, bus shelters,bollards, kiosks, cycle racks as well as sculpture, bandstands and fountains. Whilstthere is no uniform style for elements of the street furniture across the parish ofWalmer, it is recommended that attention should be drawn to the context andsetting of any proposed new items of street furniture and to opportunities to utilise36and complement existing elements of the street scene. The community is alsoconcerned with the visually polluting effects of increased provision of externallighting and therefore supports policies in the Local Plan and Kent Design toreduce light pollution in new development.WDS 11 : Where new street furniture is proposed every effort should be madeto reduce the cumulative impact of such elements on the streetscene through the use of existing fixtures such as signage postswhere possible. The provision of new street furniture shouldrespect their proposed setting and context and be of a design andquality commensurate with that settingWDS 12 : An appropriate level of lighting should be provided in newdevelopments in the parish to enhance safety and security inaccordance with the technical appendix to Kent Design whilsthaving specific regard to minimising the impact of light pollutionon the wider landscape. The use of full cut-off lanterns as requiredby Policy ER6 of the Local Plan is supported.________________________________________________________________With increased car ownership, supermarkets and out of town retail centres thecommercial element of Walmer has declined. Today only small groups of localshops remain along The Strand, Dover Road and in Upper Walmer. These localshops provide important shopping facilities for local residents, are popular with theparish’s many visitors and are considered by the community to be of considerableimportance to the character and economic and social well-being of the parish. Thevaluable service provided by such local shops is recognised in the Dover DistrictLocal Plan.WDS 13 : The social, economic and sustainability benefits to the parish of itslocal shops should be acknowledged and taken into account whenconsidering planning applications which would result in thechange of use and resultant loss of a local shop.________________________________________________________________

The North Barracks site, formerly occupied by the Royal Marines, is allocated fordevelopment in the Dover District Local Plan (Policy AS3). A memorial garden laidout at the southern end marks the site of the IRA bombing in 1989 and is dedicatedto the memory of the eleven Royal Marine musicians killed. This garden,extensively refurbished in 2004, is important to the community of Walmer. Therequirement to retain public access to the site, required in Policy AS3 (iii) of theLocal Plan, is therefore strongly supported by the community.WDS 14 : Any re-development of the former North Barracks site must retainpublic access to the memorial garden, as required by Policy AS3(iii) of the Local Plan. The nature and form of proposed land usesimmediately adjacent to the Royal Marines Memorial Gardenshould reflect the need for an appropriate setting and sense ofplace for quiet contemplation for visitors.________________________________________________________________37

12 Statement of Community InvolvementAfter participating in a seminar run by Kent Rural Community Council (KRCC) -now Action with Communities in Rural Kent - in May 2000, Walmer ParishCouncil set up a sub-committee to explore the possibility of producing aCommunity Appraisal and/or Design Statement. It was considered essential thatvolunteers from the community lead this initiative and so contacts were made withlocal clubs and organisations and two public meetings were held, at which officersfrom Dover District Council talked about planning, development and the role ofconservation areas. From these public meetings and group contacts volunteerswere invited to a meeting in April 2001 where a Steering Committee for theWalmer Design Statement Group was set up and appropriate officers were elected.The Steering Committee, with the assistance of a local field officer from KRCC andfinancial support from Walmer Parish Council, promoted the concept of a DesignStatement and sought financial backing for the process. Promotion involvedletters and flyers to organisations in the community, articles in the East KentMercury (EKM), a radio interview on Radio Kent Live, flyers distributed with theWalmer Resident’s Handbook, posters in local business windows, a display table atthe Church Parish Fayre, a newsletter from the Chairman to members and twosponsored talks relating the local history and architecture.Our treasurer enlisted financial sponsorship from KRCC and the National Lottery‘Awards for All’ scheme which was added to the support received from the ParishCouncil.By the end of April 2002, four all-day photographic workshops had beenconducted to survey the Parish and three sub-groups had been set up to beginwriting text describing the Parish and to explore the lay-out of the finisheddocument.Residents were kept aware of the Design Statement through articles in the EKMand the Resident’s Handbook. A competition was held at the Church Parish Fayreasking residents to identify some of the 1000 photographs taken of the Parish – asurprisingly difficult task. This was a means of keeping the work of the DesignStatement Group before the public.Work on the Design Statement proceeded through a series of drafts during 2002and in June 2003 the fifth draft of the Design Statement was distributed torepresentatives of local organisations and groups. A meeting was held on 12 June2003 to receive comments and suggestions. Prior to the meeting comments weretaken by telephone, letters and e-mails. All comments were tabulated, analysed andused to produce Draft 6 which was widely circulated in the community. Draft 6was displayed at the Church Parish Fayre of 21 June 2003 and, for two weeks, ateight prominent sites in the community. Posters, flyers distributed with theResident’s Handbook and another article in the EKM advertised the public meetingthat was held on 30 June to receive further comments from residents. All thesecomments were considered in the production of Draft 7 which was submitted toWalmer Parish Council in July 2003, considered by the Planning Committee andsupported by the full Parish Council in September 2003. They agreed to provideassistance to the Design Statement Group in getting the document accepted byDover District Council as Supplementary Planning Guidance.Dover District Council was involved in providing information leading to theestablishment of the Design Statement Group and was kept informed of work onthe document in Walmer. Staffing constraints prevented full participation duringmost of the survey and drafting stage, therefore, extended negotiations, the use of aconsultant and further consultation with the residents has been necessary toproduce the information collected in a format acceptable for adoption as aSupplementary Planning Document to the Dover Local Development Framework.Dover District Council provided financial assistance for this additional work.This is the first Design Statement produced in Dover District.This document has been produced with generous support from the following:38Printed by A. R. Adams & Sons (Printers) Ltd. Dour Street, Dover, Kent, CT16 1EW. Tel. 01304 211202

There grew two fellow limes, two rising trees,Shadowing the lawn, the summer haunt of bees,Whose stems, engraved with many a russet scarFrom the spear-hurlings of our mimic war,Pillar’d the portico to that wide walk,A mossy terrace of the native chalkFashion’d, that led thro’ the dark shades aroundStraight to the wooden temple on the mound.There live the memories of my early days,There still with childish heart my spirit plays;Yea, terror-stricken by the fiend despairWhen she hath fled me, I have found her there;And there ‘tis ever noon, and glad suns bringAlternate days of summer and of spring,With childish thought, and childish faces bright,And all unknown save but the hour’s delight.A description of his childhood in Walmer by Edwardian Poet Laureate, Robert Bridges: from The Summer-House on the Mound