Wirral Heritage Champion update: From conservation to coastal heritage

Wirral's rich history, heritage and cultural assets remain firmly in the spotlight thanks to the ongoing work of Councillor Jerry Williams, who has provided his latest update as Heritage Champion to the Tourism, Communities, Culture and Leisure Committee. 

Councillor Williams has served as a councillor for 27 years, representing communities across Bebington, Old Egerton (Prenton) and Upton/Woodchurch. For around 17 years he has also served as Wirral's Heritage Champion, making him the longest-serving elected member to hold the role continuously.

The role sees him work alongside heritage organisations, community groups, volunteers and council officers to help promote, protect and celebrate Wirral's historic environment. 

Presenting his latest report to the Tourism, Communities, Culture & Leisure Committee (Tuesday, 21st July) Cllr Williams highlighted progress across a range of heritage projects, including conservation area reviews, local listing work, heritage tourism opportunities and support for volunteer groups. The report noted that 287 buildings and structures have now been initially approved for local listing, recognising their contribution to the borough's character and identity, with further consultation expected later this year. 

Updates were also provided on conservation work in areas including Birkenhead Park, Hamilton Square, Clifton Park, Oxton Village, Port Sunlight and the proposed new conservation area at Noctorum Ridge. 

Councillor Williams also welcomed recent funding support for Birkenhead Park and its ongoing journey towards World Heritage Site status, describing the park as one of Wirral's most significant heritage and tourism assets. 

Away from committee meetings, Councillor Williams is well known for his lifelong passion for local history. He jokes that one of his school reports stated: "Jeremy is only interested in subjects he is interested in" — fortunately those subjects were history and geography. 

What began as a fascination with local history has developed into an internationally recognised interest in heritage and maritime history. Over the years his lectures and research have taken him across three continents, sharing stories of Wirral's people, places and ships with audiences around the world. 

Among the many projects he has supported are bringing the Peruvian Navy's tall ship BAP Unión to the River Mersey, helping develop interpretation plaques along the Wirral coastline, and campaigning to save No. 4 Dock at Cammell Laird, which remains operational today and has since received Grade II* listed status because of its association with ships of international importance. 

Councillor Williams is also a strong advocate for the borough's heritage volunteers, highlighting the thousands of hours contributed each year by local groups to preserve, research and promote Wirral's history. His latest report praised their commitment and the significant impact they have on communities across the borough. 

Looking ahead, Councillor Williams said opportunities remain to strengthen Wirral's heritage offer, including proposals for a heritage trail linking historic sites and attractions, continued partnership working with universities and heritage organisations, and building on the momentum created by Birkenhead's successful Town of Culture 2028 shortlist bid.

Through his work as a councillor, historian, lecturer and Heritage Champion, Councillor Williams continues to champion the stories, landmarks and people that have helped shape Wirral, ensuring the borough's past remains an important part of its future. 

The committee agenda and webcast is available at Agenda for Tourism, Communities, Culture & Leisure Committee on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, 6.00 p.m. | Wirral Council