Warmley Conservation Area

A copy of the full statutory conservation area leaflet and maps - the result of a public consultation process - can now be downloaded in Adobe Acrobat pdf format.

There is design guidance for specific sites:

• DG 1) Mardens Tower Road North
• DG 2) Nursery Site to the rear of Tower Road North
• DG 3) ABA Transport Site, Tower Lane

There is management guidance for specific sites also:

• MG 1) Warmley House gardens
• MG 2) Kingsway Trailer Park
• MG 3) The Grange School playing fields
• MG 4) Tower Road North
• MG 5) The summerhouse

Introduction

Warmley was designated as a conservation area in recognition of its important history and architectural connections with William Champion (1709-89) a prominent quaker, industrialist and innovator.

Setting

Warmley Conservation Area is located on the eastern fringes of greater Bristol, south of Warmley village. The core of the conservation area lies to the east of Siston Brook and is centred on Warmley House, its gardens and the former industrial area to the south. Siston Brook, which is largely hidden from view, flows in a cutting north to south through the area with the land generally rising gently on either side. Today the area consists of a mix of old and new development. The remains of Champion's legacy are partially hidden and largely surrounded by more recent development comprising a mix of residential properties, modern industrial units, school playing fields and educational uses.

History

Warmley is a heritage site of national significance, as it was at Warmley that Champion first pioneered the commercial production of zinc in Europe. Today the site is the only remaining 18th century integrated industrial complex in the country to have encompassed a full range of industrial processes from the smelting of metal to the production of finished goods. In addition to the zinc and brass mill (windmill tower, ranges and ice house) and clocktower, the estate also comprises Champion's former home - Warmley House and its surrounding gardens. The garden is a rare example of an 18th century industrialist's garden and includes many unusual features, some of which are constructed using recycled waste from the works. These features include the grottos, Echo Pond, a former thirteen-acre lake, a statue of Neptune, the mound, chequered walled garden, boathouse and summerhouse. Altogether there are nine listed buildings and a registered historic garden. The conservation area has been designated to help protect the character and setting of these features and buildings which form an important part of our heritage.