Area Overview for Bidston and St. James Ward

Tam O'Shanter Urban Farm in Bidston and St. James Ward
St James Church, Birkenhead in Bidston and St. James Ward
Farming tools, Tam o'Shanter Farm in Bidston and St. James Ward
Dovecote, Tam o'Shanter Farm in Bidston and St. James Ward
Derelict church in Flaybrick Memorial Garden in Bidston and St. James Ward
Car park - Bidston Nature Reserve in Bidston and St. James Ward
Flats on Upton Road (A5027) in Bidston and St. James Ward
Bus stop and shelter on Upton Road (A5027) in Bidston and St. James Ward
Flaybrick Memorial Gardens & ruinous chapels in Bidston and St. James Ward
Edward VIII Post Box (1936), Wirral in Bidston and St. James Ward
Claughton Village in Bidston and St. James Ward
Mona Street, Birkenhead in Bidston and St. James Ward
36 photos from this area

Area Information

Bidston and St. James Ward occupies a distinctive position within the Metropolitan Borough of Wirral in North West England. This district covers an area of 7.0 km² and serves a population of 4,531 people. Living here means residing in a location that forms part of the Wirral peninsula, bordered historically by the River Mersey to the east and the River Dee to the west. The ward encompasses the village of Bidston, situated near the coordinates 53.407764, -3.054908, and has historically included areas such as Moreton, Saughall Massie, Claughton, and parts of Birkenhead. Daily life is defined by proximity to significant heritage sites, including Bidston Hill, which offers 100 acres of heathland, woodland, and a nature reserve. You will find the area anchored by Bidston Windmill, dating from circa 1800, and the Bidston Observatory. The landscape is further enriched by Bidston Hall, featuring a loggia and a medieval village layout comprising a church, farms, a green, and a manor house. Residents also have access to St Oswald's Church and Bidston Moss, a restored former landfill that now functions as a nature reserve. While the residential core features 16th to 18th century Grade II listed red sandstone farmhouses and cottages, the settlement retains an ancient parish recorded in the Domesday Book. Arriving by road likely involves navigating the A51 and mineral railway line that separates Bidston from Birkenhead.

Area Type
District Borough Unitary Ward
Area Size
7.0 km²
Population
4531
Population Density
650 people/km²

Demographics

Understanding who lives in Bidston and St. James Ward requires looking at the specific age profile and household composition of this 7.0 km² area. The demographics indicate a median age of 70, suggesting the community skews significantly older than the national average. This high median age contextualises the finding that houses in Bidston and St. James Ward are not primarily family-sized properties. The ward reports a home ownership rate of 42%, which implies a substantial portion of the 4,531 residents are either renting or living with relatives rather than owning their property outright. Although the data does not specify a breakdown of household types or predominant ethnic groups, the overall population density stands at 650 people per km². This density figure reflects a compact settlement where services and neighbours are relatively close. The current demographic structure points to a settlement that may serve retirees or those seeking a quieter life near the coast. With such a high median age, local amenities and transport connectivity are likely tailored to an older adult demographic.

Household Size

total
most common

Accommodation Type

total
most common

Tenure

42
majority

Ethnic Group

total
most common

Religion

total
most common

Household Composition

total
most common

Age

70
median
Age: Total
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

21
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
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  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
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  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
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  • Protected Nature Reserve
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  • Protected Woodland
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  • Crime Risk
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community profile like in Bidston and St. James Ward?
The community is characterised by a high median age of 70 within a population of 4,531 people. Home ownership stands at 42%, indicating a significant rental sector alongside private owners. The ward covers 7.0 km² and includes historic sites like Bidston Hall and 16th to 18th century Grade II listed red sandstone farmhouses.
How effective is the internet connection for working from home in this area?
Digital connectivity is a primary strength of the local area. Fixed broadband quality scores a 98 out of 100, marking the connection as excellent. Residents and buyers of homes in Bidston and St. James Ward can expect reliable high-speed internet suitable for video conferencing and remote work needs.
Should I be concerned about safety or environmental risks when buying here?
There are two specific risks to consider. The Crime Risk score is 45, indicating medium crime levels where standard security is advisable. Additionally, the Flood Risk score is 17.95, presenting a medium flood risk coverage. However, the area passes all planning constraints regarding protected nature reserves and wilderness areas.

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