Walmer Design Statement - Dover District Council

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.