East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Strategy

Transcription

1 East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Strategy

2 Ministerial Foreword Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) are some of our finest landscapes. They are cherished by residents and visitors alike and allow millions of people from all walks of life to understand and connect with nature. I am pleased to see that this management plan demonstrates how AONB Partnerships can continue to protect these precious environments despite the significant challenges they face. With a changing climate, the increasing demands of a growing population and in difficult economic times, I believe AONBs represent just the sort of community driven, collaborative approach needed to ensure our natural environment is maintained for generations to come. AONB Partnerships have been the architects of a landscape-scale approach to land management. This approach is a key feature of the Government s Natural Environment White Paper and emphasises the need to manage ecosystems in an integrated fashion, linking goals on wildlife, water, soil and landscape, and working at a scale that respects natural systems. This management plan also makes the important connection between people and nature. I am pleased to hear that local communities have been central to the development of the plan, and will be at the heart of its delivery. From volunteers on nature conservation projects, to businesses working to promote sustainable tourism, it s great to hear of the enthusiasm and commitment of the local people who hold their AONBs so dear. AONBs are, and will continue to be, landscapes of change. Management plans such as this are vital in ensuring these changes are for the better. I would like to thank all those who were involved in bringing this plan together and I wish you every success in bringing it to fruition. Lord de Mauley Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for natural environment and science 3

3 Honiton Axminster Ottery St Mary Farway East Devon Way Colyton Lyme Regis Newton Poppleford South West Coast Path Seaton Beer Sidmouth Exmouth Budleigh Salterton 4

4 Contents Partnership Commendation 7 The Strategy 1.0 Legislative Context The Strategy Purposes The national, regional and local context An introduction to the 12 East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty 5.0 The Landscape Character of the AONB The Special Qualities of the East Devon Area 18 of Outstanding Natural Beauty 7.0 Strategy Themes Theme 1 - Landscape 21 Landscape Character and Historic Environment 21 Environmental Quality and Climate 25 Biodiversity and Geodiversity 28 Coast Theme 2 - Sustainability 35 Farming and Land Management 35 Access, Recreation and Tourism 39 Planning and Development 43 Transport and Highways 45 Rural Economy and Services 48 Community and Culture Theme 3 - Communication & Management 54 Communication, Education and Awareness 54 Management, Organisation and Partnerships Implementation & Review Monitoring Supporting Documents 61 Glossary and Abbreviations 62 Acknowledgements 63 5

5 A Vision for an inspirational landscape e natural beauty of the East Devon AONB landscape, its dramatic World Heritage Site coastline, internationally important habitats and species and its cultural heritage, is conserved, managed and enhanced to support and benefit present and future generations.

6 Partnership Commendation This Strategy sets out my Partnership s direction for the five years ahead. It has evolved over a ten year period since the AONB Partnership was first established in 2003 and is the only plan uniquely focussing on the AONB. Whilst much has been achieved over the intervening 10 years, we should not overlook the fact that since its designation in 1963, the East Devon AONB has been managed by landowners, farmers, local authorities and agencies in such a way that it still remains an outstanding landscape with a unique combination of special qualities. However, in this, our fiftieth year, I find myself challenged to horizon scan to the next fifty years and ask the question Will the AONB still be worthy of its designation in 2063? We have seen significant changes in land management techniques and practices since Farming and forestry has become a highly mechanised and increasingly skilled sector whose fortune ebbs and flows under the influence of global market tides. The UK s increasing population demands ever more land and the drive for more housing is seen as a key factor in our economic recovery. Our reliance on motor vehicles increases as their fuel efficiency improves and renewable energy advances in solar and wind expand as societies demand for devices that require electricity continues to grow. Whilst talk of energy supply possibly putting the lights out may help improve the dark skies across the AONB, there are more direct steps being taken to address these challenges and help conserve the AONB s special qualities. Through our main sponsor, Defra, and many of our agency partners, we are addressing targets for biodiversity, land management, forestry and water quality. Through our civic and community partners we are doing much to raise awareness, actively engage and celebrate our cultural assets. Increasingly, through our tourism, business and economic partners, we are finding ways of developing a rural economy in balance with the landscape. I think the modern parlance for this integrated approach is called an ecosystem services approach. We recognise that the AONB Partnership cannot be relied on alone to fulfil the duty to conserve and enhance this special area. That responsibility often lies with others but we understand our place in influencing this responsibility. It is for this reason that we are committed to developing the tools and processes to enable and guide others to protect, manage and plan so that the AONB can prosper and develop over the next fifty years as a living and working landscape. On behalf of my Partnership I commend this Strategy to you and look forward to delivering it over the coming years. John Wilding MBE Sidbury This Commendation The Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) requires local authorities to prepare, publish and review (on period of not more than five years) Management Plans for AONBs in their areas. This Management Strategy has been reviewed and is commended and endorsed by the East Devon AONB Partnership on behalf of Devon County Council and East Devon District Council. The Partnership is committed to the delivery of this Strategy and will work with a wide range of organisations and individuals to ensure that the outstanding natural beauty of East Devon is conserved and enhanced for future generations. The East Devon AONB Partnership is funded by Defra, Devon County Council and East Devon District Council. 7

7 1.0 Legislative Context 1.1 The requirement for this Strategy Part IV of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act consolidates earlier legislation regarding the designation and purposes of AONB's. It also adds some important provisions that: Require 'relevant authorities' (public bodies etc.) to 'have regard' to the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the AONB Require AONB local authorities or conservation boards to prepare and publish an AONB Management Plan and to review it at intervals in line with the Act clauses (in not less than 5 year intervals). This Strategy and the accompanying Partnership Action Plan fulfils this requirement. 1.2 The purpose of AONB Designation Natural England is responsible for advising on AONB designation. In its 1991 policy statement on AONBs they identified the following three aims for AONBs: The primary purpose of AONB status is to conserve and enhance natural beauty 2. When carrying out the above duty, account should be taken of the needs of agriculture, forestry, other rural industries and of the economic and social needs of the local communities. In particular, sustainable forms of social and economic development, that in themselves conserve and enhance the environment, should be promoted. 1.5 Duty of Regard Statutory duties in relation to AONBs are provided for in Section 85 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act Specifically, they state that, in exercising or performing any functions in relation to, or so as to affect, land in these areas, relevant authorities shall have regard to their purposes. The AONB Management Strategy is a useful mechanism for public bodies to support AONB purposes and demonstrate compliance with these requirements. Recreation is not a purpose of designation but demand should be met if this does not harm conservation of natural beauty or the needs of agriculture, forestry and other uses This Management Strategy therefore focuses primarily on conserving and enhancing the quality of the AONB landscape, in particular its natural beauty. However, as the 1991 Countryside Agency policy statement confirms, this duty should not be implemented in isolation. Socio-economic needs and recreation are to be taken into account in furthering this primary aim in an integrated approach to the management of the AONB. 1 HMSO (2000) 2 Section 114 of the 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act stated References in this Act to the preservation, or conservation of the natural beauty of an area shall be construed as including references to the preservation or, as the case may be, the conservation of its flora, fauna and geological or physiographical features. Also Section 99 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 clarified Natural beauty in the countryside as follows: The fact that an area in England or Wales consists of or includes - (a) land used for agriculture or woodlands, (b) land used as a park, or (c) any other area whose flora, fauna or physiographical features are partly the product of human intervention in the landscape, does not prevent it from being treated, for the purposes of any enactment (whenever passed), as being an area of natural beauty (or of outstanding natural beauty). 8

8 2.0 The Strategy Purposes 2.1 The Strategy has five key purposes-: To present an integrated vision for the future of the AONB To highlight its special qualities To set out key objectives and policies with key priorities to help secure these qualities To identify actions to achieve these outcomes (The Delivery Plan) To state how the Strategy will be monitored Who is the Strategy for? The Strategy essentially relates to the AONB landscape. As a consequence, it will be of interest to the communities, parishes, residents, businesses, landowners and farmers, agencies, local authorities, utilities, organisations and amenity groups operating within or with an interest in the area. In this sense it is a shared strategy that has been influenced and will continue to be developed through partnerships and through on-going consultation with these interests. Strategy Status and Partnership Commitment This Strategy formulates East Devon District Council and Devon County Council local authority policy and action in relation to the management of the East Devon AONB as required under Part IV, Section 89 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act The AONB Partnership role The East Devon AONB Partnership acts on behalf of East Devon District Council and Devon County Council to deliver and monitor the Management Strategy. The following organisations are represented on the East Devon AONB Partnership and endorse this Management Strategy, its vision and objectives: Axe Vale & District Conservation Society Clinton Devon Estates Country Land & Business Association Campaign for the Protection of Rural England Defra Devon County Council Devon Association of Local Councils East Devon Business Group East Devon District Council English Heritage Environment Agency Forestry Commission Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site National Farmers Union National Trust Natural England Otter Valley Association Sid Vale Association The Donkey Sanctuary 2.5 Business Planning The annual review of the Delivery Plan for this strategy will enable both the Strategy and AONB Business Plan priorities to be annually updated. The AONB Business Plan is revised and updated annually and is the key supporting document in the Partnership grant application to Defra and the local authorities. Delivery Plan AONB Business Plan Management Strategy 9

9 3.0 The national, regional and local context 3.1 National AONB's in England, Wales and Northern Ireland In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, our finest landscapes have been conserved through designation as National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) 3. These protected landscapes are: Twelve AONBs and parts of two others extend to 30% of the region. This is twice the proportion covered by AONBs in England as a whole. Two National Parks - Dartmoor and Exmoor, covering some 7% of the region. AONBs throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland 3.2 AONBs were brought into being by the same legislation as National Parks - the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of They have been described as fine landscapes, of great variety in character and extent 4. Other key South West environmental assets are: 638 km of defined Heritage Coast, and 60% of England s undeveloped coastline The South West Coast Path National Trail 4 World Heritage Sites 2 Community Forests 3.3 Regional The richness and diversity of the South West environment differentiates it from other English regions making the region attractive as a place both to live and work. It is a highly rural region with some 25,000 agricultural holdings and nearly 69,000 engaged in agricultural employment. 5 South West - designated and defined interests 3.4 Approximately 38% of the region is classified by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as Category V Protected Landscapes. A protected area is defined as A clearly defined geographical space, recognised, dedicated and managed, through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values (IUCN). 3 See page 62 for details of abbreviations used in this Strategy

10 3.5 Local Devon s natural and historic environment is notable for its high quality. Over 50% of the land in Devon is designated for its environmental quality encompassing two World Heritage Sites, five AONBs, two National Parks and a Biosphere Reserve. The AONBs and National Parks together cover some 38% of the county. East Devon AONB county and district setting North Devon AONB Exmoor National Park Somerset Landscape Designations Area of Great Landscape Value National Park 3.6 Within East Devon, the Blackdown Hills and East Devon AONBs occupy approximately 2/3rds of the district. Devon Blackdown Hills AONB East Devon AONB Dorset AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Please note that the protected landscapes are drawn to county and district boundaries only. Cornwall Tamar Valley AONB Dartmoor National Park South Devon AONB Broadclyst Clyst St Mary Ottery St Mary Newton Poppleford Dunkeswell Blackdown Hills AONB Honiton Sidmouth Membury Seaton Dorset AONB East Devon Axminster AONB Musbury Uplyme Exmouth Budleigh Salterton 11

11 4.0 An introduction to the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty The East Devon AONB is a very attractive landscape, full of contrast and colour, diverse and rich in wildlife and a working landscape that is home to approximately 30,640 residents 6. The AONB lies solely within East Devon District and covers, or part covers, 30 parishes. It was designated in 1963 and covers 103 square miles (268 sq kms) - approximately 32% of East Devon District. With the exception of Budleigh Salterton, the AONB skirts the major settlements in the area. It is one of five AONBs that fall within Devon, abutting the Blackdown Hills AONB to the north and Dorset AONB to the east. The striking East Devon coastline has a great influence on the social, economic and environmental makeup of the AONB and the Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site is serving to further raise its significance. As the first natural World Heritage Site in England, the Jurassic Coast (as it s more commonly referred to), gives a unique insight into 185 million years of earth history through the rocks exposed along its 95-mile coastline. Along the coast the villages still retain a vernacular character and rural charm that to date has been largely unspoilt by the expansion of tourism. There is no better way to sample this impressive coastline than on the South West Coast Path, the most popular National Trail in the country, which brings in significant economic benefit to the South West as a whole. 6 Source: ONS, mid-year Population estimates, The hinterland to the coast is less well known. Large expanses of heathland provide a contrast to well-wooded combes and fertile river valleys. In the west of the AONB is the largest single block of lowland heathland west of the New Forest, the East Devon Pebble Beds, (Woodbury and other East Devon Commons). Elsewhere on high ground woodland dominates, both deciduous and in more recent times, coniferous. A predominantly pastoral landscape, the AONB is interspersed with copses and wooded goyles, some dating back beyond the 1600s, providing a contrast to the hilltop plantations. Steep sided Devon hedge-banks border fields and narrow country lanes, disguising the richness of this outstanding landscape to all but the most observant traveller. The AONB landscape is punctuated by hamlets and villages with cottages and houses built of local stone, pebbles, thatch and cob, a reflection of the underlying geology and traditional land use of the area. Cob, a more commonly accessible and alternative material to stone, is a mixture of clayey soils and straw, and is also found in many farmhouses and local buildings, particularly in the west of the AONB Devon has a strong tradition of combed wheat thatching, but since the 1950s, water reed, mainly imported from Eastern Europe, has also been used extensively. Imported brick, slate and clay tiles all brought greater changes in the 19th century to provide a more diverse building form to the AONB. Chert and pebblebed stone ( popple ) can be found in many churches, local buildings and walls. The much sought after Beer limestone, used locally in Beer has also been used in buildings such as Exeter Cathedral and as far afield as America. Evidence of man s former activity is present today in the form of the historic environment ranging from the nationally significant Bronze Age hill-barrow cemetery at Farway to several Iron Age hill-forts and numerous tumuli and former quarries, to the more recent enclosure field patterns and anti- invasion World War II pill boxes in the Axe Valley. Branscombe

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13 5.0 The Landscape Character of the AONB The European Landscape Convention (ELC) defines landscape as: An area as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors. (Council of Europe 2000) The ELC highlights the importance of developing landscape policies dedicated to the protection, management and creation of landscapes and establishing procedures for the general public and other stakeholders to participate in policy creation and implementation. The UK is recognised as already putting many of the principles of the ELC into practice and the AONB Management Stategy is an excellent example of this. Another example is the well established practice of using Landscape Character Assessment to inform local policymaking. In terms of area-wide landscape management, there have been a number of developments in the assessment and evaluation of the landscape over the last decade that have served to improve our detailed understanding of the natural and cultural landscape of East Devon AONB. At the National level, National Character Areas (NCAs) divide England into 159 distinct natural areas. Each is defined by a unique combination of landscape, biodiversity, geodiversity and cultural and economic activity. Their boundaries follow natural lines in the landscape rather than administrative boundaries, making them an invaluable aid for planning environmental projects and decision making for the environment. There are two NCA s covering the AONB, The Blackdowns (147) and Devon Redlands (148) NCA profiles are being developed as guidance documents which will help to achieve a more sustainable future for individuals and communities. The profiles include a description of the key ecosystem services provided in each character area and how these benefit people, wildlife and the economy. They identify potential opportunities for positive environmental change and provide the best available information and evidence as a context for local decision making and action. The extent and quality of a landscape s key characteristics, both perceived and hidden, can be identified through the application of assessment models such as Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) and Historic Landscape Characterisation (HLC). These assessment models can be used to influence and target landscape protection, management and development. National Character Areas Devon Redlands Blackdowns A Landscape Character Assessment of Devon was completed in 2012, complementing the earlier East Devon LCA (2007) and the HLC of Devon (2006). Together these assessments provide a basis upon which to protect, manage and plan landscape change within the AONB. These assessments identify a hierarchy of landscape units, building from smaller more detailed Land Description Units (LDU s) to generic Landscape Character Types (LCT s) and finally to the more geographically unique and locally identifiable Devon Landscape Character Areas (LCA s ). The detailed assessment work has included the development of guidelines to protect, manage and plan landscape change. The AONB Partnership will use these guidelines in developing its work and in responding to consultations. East Devon AONB 14

14 Devon Landscape Character Areas Axe Valley Blackdown Hills Clyst Lowland Farmlands East Devion Central Ridge Pebblebed Heaths and Farmlands Sidmouth and Lyme Bay Coastal Plateau Wootton Hills Landscape Character Types* 1A Open inland planned plateaux 1B Open coastal plateaux 1C Pebble Bed heaths 1E Wooded hilltops and ridges 2A Steep wooded scarp slopes 3A Upper farmed and wooded slopes 3B Lower rolling farmed and settled slopes 3C Sparsely settled farmed valley floors 4A Estuaries 4B Marine levels 4D Coastal slopes and combes 4H Cliffs Urban * Recently updated landscape character type number and name subject to adoption by East Devon District Council 15

15 Historic Landscape Characterisation - Present day landscape Airfield Ancient woodland Conifers Former airfield Former military complex Former orchards Historic settlements Horticulture Industrial complex Marsh Medieval enclosures Medieval enclosures based on strip fields Medieval strip-enclosures Military complex Modern enclosure Modern enclosures Modern settlement Mud Mud and sand Orchard Other woodland Park/garden Post-medieval enclosures Post-medieval enclosures with medieval enclosures Public complex Quarries Recreation Rock Rough ground Rough ground with prehistoric remains Sand Water Watermeadow Woodland with old field boundaries Barton fields 16 Burscombe

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17 6.0 The Special Qualities of East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty East Devon AONB is notable for its varied and dramatic coastal scenery; the grandeur of sheer red sandstone cliffs, intimate wooded combes and coves contrast with the stark, white chalk outcrop that punctuates the coast at Beer Head and further east, the wilderness of the undercliffs. Its special qualities do not stop at the coast. Inland, the heathland commons provide high, open and remote plateaux. Important recreationally, the heathland habitat is valuable for its flora and fauna and contrasts sharply with the lower undulating agricultural mosaic of small fields, hedgerows and woodland copse. Elevated fingers of land extend from the Blackdown Hills to the north, their height and linearity accentuated by cathedral-like beech avenues; woodlands clad their sides, flowing down steep sided goyles to infiltrate the tranquil and often intimate agricultural valleys below. This contrasts with the broad flat floodplains of the Axe and Otter which cut into the area, drawing their life from tributaries deep within the valleys of the undulating hinterland. The human engagement, use and management of this land since pre-historic times has guided the pattern and shape of the settlements, field patterns, woodland and heath, creating a landscape of significant scenic beauty that is the basis for its agricultural and tourism economy Recreational, cultural and spiritual qualities abound, with the South West Coast Path, East Devon Way and open access land, most notably on the Pebblebed Heaths, providing extensive opportunities for open air recreation, healthy exercise, uninterrupted views or an escape to tranquillity and relative isolation. Our association with the cultural and heritage dimension of the landscape has inspired writing, poetry, art and song for generations. The Countryside Commission appraisal of the East Devon AONB (CCP442) identifies many of these associations and special qualities and has been more recently supplemented by assessments of the character of the landscape at the national, county and local level. These assessments have enabled further articulation of the special qualities and features of significance as they relate to natural beauty, which are summarised in the table on page 19. These features of significance and special qualities are axiomatic to what goes into making the natural beauty of the landscape of such high quality. Alongside the key characteristics of the landscape areas and types, they require protection, conservation and enhancement if the AONB is to retain its character and status amongst England s finest landscapes. The relationship between natural beauty and special qualities Legal Context for Natural Beauty Natural England Evaluation Framework for natural beauty criterion National, County, district and local records and assessments Key features & attributes of significance Evidence Base Special Qualities Six landscape factors, covering landscape and scenic quality, relative wildness and tranquillity, natural and cultural heritage Landscape and Historic Landscape Character Assessments, heritage, geological and biodiversity records, other records Locally specific/ distinctive reflecting the natural beauty criterion 18

18 NCA No. National Character Area Devon Landscape Character Area Blackdown Hills Special Qualities and Features of Significance Distinctive, unspoilt, and very exposed skylines often looking over the crowns of woodland on the steep greensand slopes. High scenic quality reflected in the area forming part of the Blackdown Hills and East Devon AONBs. Outstanding views across East Devon and the Otter valley. Sense of isolation and remoteness, enhanced by exposure of the plateau; tranquillity provided by the dense woodland of the greensand scarps. Many CWSs and SSSIs including ancient semi-natural woodland, semi-improved and improved acidic and neutral grasslands and spring line mires. Picturesque villages with traditional buildings linked by narrow winding lanes; many listed buildings. LCT No.* 1A 2A 3A Landscape Character Type* Open inland planned plateaux Steep wooded scarp slopes Upper farmed and wooded valley slopes East Devon Central Ridge Distinctive, unspoilt, and very exposed skylines. Outstanding views across East Devon, mainly southwards to the coast but also northwards into the Blackdowns. Sense of isolation, tranquillity and remoteness, enhanced by natural qualities of the rivers and scarp woodlands. Many County Wildlife Sites comprising ancient semi-natural woodland; semi-improved and improved acidic and neutral grasslands; spring line mires; and extensive areas of heathland and gorse scrub particularly on Gittisham Hill and Broad Down. Prominent Bronze Age barrows on Gittisham Hill and Farway Hill; earthwork remains of former castles e.g. Farway Castle hill forts. Combe House Registered Park and Garden, including historic wood pasture and parkland. Picturesque villages with traditional buildings linked by narrow winding lanes crossing historic stone bridges; many listed buildings 1A 2A 3A Open inland planned plateaux Steep wooded scarp slopes Upper farmed and wooded valley slopes 147 Blackdowns Sidmouth and Lyme Bay Coastal Plateau Wootton Hills Area between the cliff tops and mean low water mark forms part of the Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site (WHS), of outstanding world value for its geological and geomorphological formations (particularly fossils). The chalk and limestone cliffs unique in a Devon context and the most westerly chalk cliffs in England. Rare chalk grassland along the coast which is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and CWS. Shingle beach between Beer Head and Sidmouth is one of three UK sites for the rare scaley cricket. Undercliffs valued for nature conservation and geological formations Sidmouth to Beer Coast SSSI and Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs SSSI, SAC and National Nature Reserve (NNR). Estuary habitats valued for their salt marshes and mudflats (i.e. Otter Estuary SSSI and Local Nature Reserve (LNR) and Otter Meadows CWS). Historic Park and Garden at Rousdon. High value for recreation, including part of the South West Coastal Path long distance route. Cultural associations with writers and artists inspired by the dramatic coastal scenery including Lionel Aggett, John Fowles and Carolyn Vernon Coastal hillforts e.g. Berry Camp/High Peak and remains of prehistoric field boundaries at Beer Head and Littlecombe Shoot. Distinctive, unspoilt, and exposed skylines. Outstanding views across East Devon, mainly southwards to the coast but also northwards into the Blackdowns and across the Axe Valley. Bronze Age barrows in elevated positions on ridges; setting to and site of Musbury Castle hill fort. Many CWSs designated for unimproved neutral grassland and broadleaved woodland; and SSSI designations at Park Farm Meadows and Bulmoor Pastures and Coppice. Notable areas of ancient semi-natural woodland in the north e.g. New Park Coppice. Contains the East Devon Way long distance path. Picturesque historic villages with traditional buildings linked by narrow winding lanes crossing historic stone bridges; many listed buildings 1B 1C 3A 4B 4D 4H 1A 2A 3B Open coastal plateau Pebble Bed Heaths Upper farmed and wooded valley slopes Marine Levels Coastal Slopes and Coombes Cliffs Open inland planned plateaux Steep wooded scarp slopes Lower rolling farmed and settled valley slopes Axe Valley High degree of tranquillity and remoteness in the tributary valleys. River Axe SSSI and SAC; Estuary habitats valued for their salt marshes, mudflats and waders (eg Seaton Marshes). Ancient woodlands, many of which are CWSs County Geological Site on former sand and gravel workings at Kilmington (terrace gravels containing exotic pebbles) 17th and 18th country houses including Stedcombe House; and Woodend Park which contains notable veteran trees of national importance for their wood decay invertebrates and lichens Vernacular buildings of cob and thatch and village church towers that add to the picturesque qualities of the area. Cultural associations with WG Hoskins who described Colyton as singularly beautiful, with rolling green hills and deep combes. Second World War pillboxes within flood plain form a distinctive landscape feature. Important area for recreation including walking and horse riding area includes the East Devon Way long distance footpath which runs through the valley. 1E 3A 3B 3C 4B Wooded ridges and hilltops Upper farmed and wooded valley slopes Lower rolling farmed and settled valley slopes Sparsely settled farmed valley floors Marine levels Clyst Lowland Farmlands Well managed, generally low hedgerows enabling views to distinctive wooded skyline hills which help provide orientation and sense of place. Sense of tranquillity enhanced by natural qualities of the meandering streams and rivers. Other nature conservation interest mainly limited to patches of unimproved neutral grassland and marshy grassland or fen, traditional orchards and steam margins. Rich cultural heritage of the area s hilltops, such as Bronze Age barrows, Iron Age hillforts and ancient settlement remain. Picturesque villages with traditional buildings linked by narrow winding lanes crossing historic stone bridges; many listed buildings and Conservation Areas. Many buildings constructed of local stone. 3A Upper farmed and wooded valley slopes 148 Devon Redlands Pebble Bed Heaths and Farmland Distinctive, unspoilt, wooded skyline providing local distinctiveness and orientation. Outstanding views across East Devon to west and east and also south to the coast. Sense of isolation, tranquillity and remoteness, enhanced by natural qualities of the heath, woodland and commons. Rarity value as one of Devon s few areas of remaining lowland heath. Varied wildlife habitats including SSSI, SAC and Special Protection Area (SPA) designations on heathland habitats valued for endangered species such as Dartford Warbler, Nightjar and invertebrates. Other habitats of value including ancient semi-natural and broadleaved woodland. Bicton and Cadhay Historic Parks and Gardens (Grade I and Grade II registered respectively) which include historic wood pasture and parkland and nationally significant population of veteran trees at Bicton. Woodbury Castle (Iron Age hill fort, Scheduled Monument) and numerous Bronze Age burial mounds Picturesque villages with traditional buildings linked by narrow winding lanes crossing historic stone bridges; many listed buildings. Valued area for recreation with good access provision and high carrying capacity. Woodbury Common associated with Arthur Mee and described in Peach L Du Garde Guide to Unknown Devon 1B 1C 3B 3C Open coastal plateau Pebble Bed Heaths Lower rolling farmed and settled valley slopes Sparsely settled farmed valley floors * Recently updated landscape character type number and name subject to adoption by East Devon District Council

19 7.0 The Strategy themes Introduction Our Vision statement should be seen as a long term vision. It is recognised that there will be an on-going role for all partners to work towards this Vision through the delivery of this Strategy. In order to make progress in achieving this Vision it is necessary to identify the issues facing the East Devon AONB and detail policies and priority actions that will serve to guide the delivery of the Strategy. The Strategy is made up of three over-arching themes which are further divided into 12 sub-themes, each with their own contextual background, vision and policies. A Delivery Plan will outline how we will implement the Strategy, with targets, timescales, lead partners and potential funding for delivery. We will report annually on our work and update our Delivery Plan which will in turn feed into our business planning process for future years, Management Strategy Delivery Plan Management Themes There are three main themes to this Strategy 1. Landscape 2. Sustainability 3. Communication and Management The themes follow the same format as the previous Strategy, which was based on a combination of national guidelines, consultation feedback with stakeholders and the desire for the Devon based AONB's to present a unified and complementary approach. Sub-theme Vision Background, Forces for Change and Policy Influences Key Objective and Policies Measuring Progress the Key Objective of the Sub-theme the Sub-theme Vision the Vision for the AONB the statutory purpose of the East Devon AONB designation to conserve and enhance the area s natural beauty 7.9 It is recognised there will be overlaps and interdependencies between all the themes. It is also expected that the development of the AONB Team and Partnership and delivery of the Strategy over the next five years will continue to refine the delivery framework on the basis of improved information and data. Interpretation of policies All the policies in the Management Strategy must be interpreted in the light of: Where there are any doubts or conflicts, policies should be interpreted using a purposive approach which returns to the statutory purpose of the AONB designation, to conserve and enhance natural beauty. Annual Report Priority Actions 20

20 Theme 1 Landscape Landscape Character and Historic Environment Historic Environment of East Devon AONB Considering its size, East Devon AONB has an amazingly diverse natural, historic and cultural landscape. The challenge for the Partnership is to conserve and enhance the special qualities of this outstanding landscape for future generations. Cathy Fitzroy, Natural England A vision for landscape character and historic environment The AONB landscape, its historic features and distinctive vernacular buildings are conserved and enhanced as part of a living and working landscape for which there are mechanisms in place to ensure their continued long-term management and care. Description This sub-theme addresses the principle character influencing elements of the AONB; its diversity of landscape form, its locally distinctive villages, historic environment and its sense of tranquillity. Landscape can be described as an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors 7. Background and Evidence As earlier sections have evidenced, for such a small AONB, East Devon has tremendous landscape character variety, ranging from exposed cliffs to large expanses of lowland heath and a mixed farmed landscape with small fields, hedgerows, pasture and arable. The East Devon AONB also has a rich and diverse historic environment in terms of the density of known sites and buildings and the range of periods represented, from early prehistory to modern times. A notable feature of the AONB is how the internationally important geological diversity of the area is reflected in both its archaeological and architectural heritage. 7 European Landscape Convention (2000) East Devon AONB Historic Buildings Conservation Areas Historic Park and Gardens Scheduled Ancient Monuments Crown Copyright. All Rights Reserved The Devon County Historic Environment Record (HER) contains information on over 3,200 sites of archaeological and historic interest within the AONB. Survey work carried out for the AONB has added to this picture. The quality and significance of this resource is reflected in the high number of statutory designations. There are 58 Scheduled Ancient Monuments within the AONB, 4 Registered Historic Parks and Gardens, 855 Listed Buildings and all or part of 12 Conservation Areas. In addition the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site (JCWHS) falls almost entirely within the AONB. The area covered by the AONB has scattered settlement and has been farmed for many centuries. Archaeological evidence is often masked by successive layers of settlement and landscape development and is therefore not immediately obvious, but it is there in abundance. However, there are areas of East Devon, particularly what is now marginal land on the coast and high plateaux, where very well preserved archaeological sites can be seen. These include the burial mounds on Farway Hill, the celtic field system at Beer Head and hill forts such as Woodbury Castle and Blackbury Camp. 21

21 The landscape itself, the intricate pattern of settlements, farms, lanes, fields and woods, is also a vital part of the historic environment and has been created by thousands of years of human activity. The interplay of landscapes reflecting different periods of formation, together with the underlying geology and landforms, have created a rich and distinctive tapestry. In addition, the historic environment, its archaeological features both visual and hidden, from local settlements and historic buildings to iron-age forts, has an integral influence on the natural and cultural landscape of East Devon AONB. The conservation and enhancement of the natural, historic and man-made landscape features is central to the AONB Management Strategy. Whilst it is recognised there are many complex forces and factors that influence landscape and historic environment change, there are practical ways in which the AONB Partnership has already directly influenced change, for example in delivering small to medium scale landscape management and historic environment projects, land management and skills training, influencing targeting and advice for environmental stewardship and supporting others engaged in similar initiatives. Other influences on landscape may be seen as more complex and governed principally at regional, national or even international level; for example climate change, the development new crop technology and the move towards renewable energy sources. The landscape has, for the last 50 years or so, been heavily influenced by the issue of subsidies and financial support for farming. The position today is no different, except that payments are now geared to landscape enhancement rather than food production which, given projected world food shortages, may only be a short term measure Despite the global nature of these developments, the AONB can have a role in influencing these areas either locally, or through its regional or national networks. In doing so, it is important that the landscape character and historic environment of the AONB is understood and integral to its future management. The AONB has been closely involved in a number of projects and assessments that have been developed in order to aid this process: A primary archaeological survey of the AONB (2003) Landscape Character Assessment of the AONB (2006-8) Devon CC Historic Landscape Characterisation (2007) Landscape Management Guidelines for East Devon and Blackdown Hills AONB (2008) Devon Landscape Character Assessment (2011) Undergrounding power lines as part of regional programme Historic Environment initiatives based around the South West Coast Path and AONB Heritage Lottery Fund supported projects National Character Area Profiles being developed by Natural England ( ) High Peak excavations

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23 Trends and Forces for change The scale and nature of reform of the Common Agricultural Policy and its impact on land management. There is concern about the ability to maintain low (financial) return landscapes that have a high ecological and/or historic environment value. There is a growing level of public awareness and interest in landscape, historic environment and heritage features. The tranquillity and historic environment of the AONB may be affected by increased human activity resulting from a regional and local population growth and development. There is a desire amongst some communities to review the AONB boundary. Key landscape and historic environment features will be vulnerable to climate change, sea level rise and changing land management. Steps are being taken to combine Landscape, Historic Character and Historic Environment Record data to provide more relevant characterisation and local management guidance. Advances in crop modification, renewable energy technology and bio-energy are likely to impact on landscape character and the historic environment of the AONB. Green infrastructure planning is becoming increasingly important at a regional and sub-regional level and could offer opportunities to link wildlife, access and landscape. A draft accord has been developed between NAAONB, ANPA and the Federation of the Electronic Industries (2012) Seascape assessments are increasingly being used as tools to help guide coastal management. Key Policy/Programme Influences Natural England s European Landscape Convention Action Plan 8 (2009) Heritage White Paper Heritage Protection for the 21st Century 9 (2007) English Heritage: Conservation Principles, Policies and Guidance for Sustainable Management of the Historic Environment 10 (2008) English Heritage - Understanding Place: Character and context in local planning 11 Heritage at Risk 12 (2008) new national evidence base Natural England s National Character Area profiles and statements of environmental opportunity Rural Development Programme for England and its successor post 2014 The Ecosystems Services approach to landscape management Forestry Commission Accord with NAAONB (2002) English Heritage Accord with NAAONB (2004) Woodland Trust Accord with NAAONB (2012) Key Objective Improved coordination and influence in the management of the distinctive landscape and historic environment features of the AONB, to ensure they are maintained, enhanced, understood and appreciated. Policies L1 Support the development and delivery of environmental schemes and projects aimed at maintaining and improving the special qualities of the AONB. L2 Develop methods that enable effective and targeted management and monitoring of the AONB s special qualities. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure No. of heritage assets on the Heritage at risk register (English Heritage) Total woodland cover as % of AONB (Forestry Commission) Priority Actions Review and update the East Devon Landscape Character Assessment and Management Guidelines and consider Seascape Assessment Complete Historic Environment Action Plan and develop priorities Develop and secure funding for AONB Landscape Partnership Scheme 24

24 8.2 Environmental quality and climate Good husbandry of our land and water is central to maintaining a high quality of life for all. We must be open, dynamic and inclusive in our approach to enable us to achieve this goal with all our partners. Hugh Davey, Environment Agency A vision for environmental quality and climate The land, soils and water across the AONB are exposed to fewer pollutants, are better valued and are managed in a more integrated way. Our rivers, lakes and coastal waters are cleaner and support sustainable ecosystems that provide for recreation, the needs of the local and visiting community and in doing so help sustain the local economy. We understand the unavoidable impacts of climate change and are taking steps to adapt to these. Description This sub-theme addresses the background and trends in the key natural resources where the AONB has greatest influence, namely land and water. It also addresses the topic of climate change and the AONB. Background and Evidence The maintenance of the natural resources of the AONB, in particular its soils and water, are key in determining the quality and range of habitats and species across the AONB. Regardless of what we do now to reduce emissions the scientific consensus suggests the climate will change in reaction to the historic emissions already in the system. So we have to understand what the likely impacts of climate change could be on the features of the AONB. In recent years there has been an increasing move towards improving the management of these resources through a variety of mechanisms for greater public benefit such as Catchment Sensitive Farming schemes to promote positive soil and nutrient management. The reform of support systems to farming such as the Single farm Payment Scheme 13 and Water Framework Directive 14 are beginning to affect the way in which the land is managed, in particular soils Global Climate Projections to Temperature: The global average surface temperature is projected to rise by 1.4 to 5.8 C. This rate of warming will be much larger than observed changes during the 20th century (+0.6 C) and is very likely to be without precedent during the last 10,000 years. Nearly all land areas will warm more rapidly than the oceans; warming will be greater at the poles than at the equator. Precipitation: Globally, average precipitation is projected to increase although there will be regional differences. For Northern Europe winters will become wetter and summers may become drier. Where average rainfall is projected to increase, larger year to year variations are likely. Extreme Weather Events: As average surface temperature rises it is very likely that both higher maximum temperatures and more hot days, and higher minimum temperature and fewer cold/frost days will occur over nearly all land areas. More intense precipitation events are also expected. Sea Level: Global mean sea level is projected to rise by 9 to 88 cm due to the thermal expansion of the oceans and loss of mass from glaciers and ice caps. In the short space of time since the production of the first AONB Management Strategy in , climate change has become accepted as a major concern that requires immediate action at many levels. Climate change and the rising cost of energy are driving a global move for natural/renewable forms of fuel such as solar and wind, which are already having an impact on land management and in turn on farming in the future

25 8.2.5 Renewable energy sources are seen as a priority for governments across Europe as a means of combating climate change. The Climate Change Act requires that greenhouse gas emissions are reduced by at least 80 per cent below base year levels by Whilst small domestic renewable energy projects for on-site use may be largely appropriate within the AONB, industrial and commercial developments present significant challenges both in terms of landscape impact and the ability to dispatch power according to grid operator demand (dispatchable power). Renewable Energy schemes in East Devon 17 Energy type No of schemes Capacity (MW) Capacity (MWth) Solar pv Solar thermal Landfill gas 0 Sewage gas Onshore wind Energy from waste 0 Heat pumps Hydropower Anaerobic digester 0 Biomass Total (Source- RegenSW 2013) Hydro turbine (Tipton) 26

26 Trends and Forces for change Changes to farming support require that good agricultural and environmental conditions be met that will help in the protection of soils and water resources. Waste management regulations 18 prohibit unregulated burying and burning of agricultural waste on farms. The Water Framework Directive 19 is placing high environmental standards on the management of water and the production of River Basin Management Plans. The Catchment Sensitive Farming 20 programme is operating in the Axe and Otter rivers with aims to control diffuse emissions of pollutants to levels consistent with the ecological sensitivity and uses of rivers, ground waters and other aquatic habitats. There is increasing interest in small scale renewable energy and biofuel provision within the AONB. The Climate South West 21 work can help us understand climate impacts in the region. Devon aims to recover more value from municipal waste 22. Pressure for development on green field sites on the fringes of towns and villages in the AONB is presenting challenges for the management of water /drainage and flood alleviation. Both opportunities and challenges could arise from climate change impacts on the AONB s features and the activities within it. Levels of light pollution and demand for locally sourced raw materials may increase as a result of increased human activity resulting from a regional population growth. Subsidy driven large scale renewable energy schemes, in particular solar arrays, are impacting on landscape character and agricultural land use. New technologies and techniques for extracting energy may place demands on the landscape and geology of the AONB in the future Waste Management in Devon 67% 45% 35% 30% 5% 11% 30% 27% 28% 22% 2004/5 Recycling Composting Landfill 2010/11 Key Policy/programme influences Recycling Composting Landfill 2014/15 (proposed) Recycling Composting Landfill Energy Recovery The Water Framework Directive Catchment Management Initiatives East Devon District Council Climate Change Strategy Devon County /East Devon District Council s Waste Management Strategies Government renewable energy grant/incentive schemes Flood and Water Management Act 2010 Key Objective The sustainable management of the natural resources of the AONB. Policies EQC 1 Support and encourage environmental and renewable energy initiatives aimed at maintaining and improving the natural resources of the AONB and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, that are in keeping with the sustainable management of the landscape, maintain landscape character and conserve and where possible enhance, natural beauty. EQC 2 Support and encourage schemes that will help to reduce, recycle and re-use waste in a sustainable manner whilst respecting the landscape character of the AONB. EQC3 Seek to understand and plan to exploit or minimise possible impacts arising from climate change in order to conserve and enhance the AONB, in particular habitats and species protected for their nature conservation value. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure River water quality (Environment Agency) Secondary measure Renewable energy installations/schemes (RegenSW) Priority Actions Support appropriate schemes for renewable energy and initiatives to reduce, recycle and re-use waste Work with partners to test landscape management models for climate change adaptation e.g. Lower Otter Valley (Environment Agency, Clinton Devon Estates) To actively support catchment based management programmes 27

27 8.3 Biodiversity and Geodiversity From the extensive pebblebed heathlands to the chalk headlands and landslip via the woodlands and views along East Hill Strips, the range and beauty of the wildlife is dependent on the fascinatingly diverse geology which underlies East Devon. e local amenities societies, based around the three main rivers, contribute to the conservation and understanding of this remarkable area. Donald Campbell, Axe Vale and District Conservation Society A vision for biodiversity and Geodiversity The variety of wildlife and geology within the AONB is conserved and measures are being taken to further enhance habitats and geological features. The importance of these assets on the fabric of the landscape are understood and appreciated by local people and visitors alike. Description This sub-theme addresses conserving and enhancing the wildlife, habitat and geological assets of the AONB The Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site is the only natural World Heritage Site' in England inscribed by UNESCO, offering 95 miles of geological exposures. Nationally and locally designated areas There are 14 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) within the AONB covering some 1811ha, ranging from geological quarry features to fen habitat and accounting for almost 7% of the AONB landscape. (68.6% of these SSSI s are currently in favourable condition in East Devon AONB). The Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs National Nature Reserve encompasses 334 ha of the coastal habitat in the AONB. The geology that forms the AONB landscape is exposed in dramatic form on the World Heritage Site in a series of cliffs and headlands and is also visible inland in the form of geological exposures at Wilmington and Shapwick Grange Quarries and Beer Quarry caves. These sites are complemented by a number of County Geological Sites (CGS) Background and Evidence East Devon AONB has a rich and varied wildlife resource ranging from the large expanse of lowland heath habitats in the west to the wilderness woodland of the Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs National Nature Reserve in the east. Internationally designated areas The AONB has a significant area of internationally important habitat. Special Areas for Conservation (SAC) account for 1644ha of the AONB, Special Protection Areas (SPA) cover some 1118ha which includes a small overlap with the Exe Estuary which is also RAMSAR site. The recently confirmed Lyme Bay and Torbay SAC covers some 312sqkm. Sites falling within the AONB include, for example: East Devon Pebblebed Heaths SPA /SAC Part of River Axe SAC Part of the 897 ha Sidmouth to West Bay SAC Beer Quarry Caves SAC International areas East Devon AONB Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site Special Areas of Conservation Special Protection Area Ramsar Sites National and local areas East Devon AONB National Nature Reserves Sites of Scientific Interest County Wildlife Sites Local Nature Reserves Regionally Important Geological Sites Crown Copyright. All Rights Reserved Crown Copyright. All Rights Reserved

28 Local sites County Wildlife Sites (CWS) and Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) are further designations which afford both protection and in the case of LNRs, public access to the wildlife and geological resource of the AONB. The AONB occupies some 33% of the East Devon District and as the table below shows; there are 135 CWS in the AONB, representing 49% of those within the District. Two LNRs, Fire Beacon Hill and Knapp Copse fall entirely within the AONB with others such as Trinity Hill straddling the boundary. County Wildlife Sites in East Devon Habitat No. Sites AONB East Devon % in AONB Area (ha) No. Sites Area (ha) By Number Habitat and wildlife conservation is a key component of AONB management. Future direction for the management of priority species and habitats has been provided by Biodiversity Action Plans 23 (BAPs) and more recently requirements for the favourable management of SSSIs. The UK BAP has been interpreted at the local level through the Devon Biodiversity Action Plan and a Biodiversity Action Plan for East Devon District Council. By Area Heathland % 70% Woodland % 49% Acidic Grassland % 89% Marshy Grassland % 30% Calcareous Grassland % 88% Neutral Grassland % 57% Springline Mire % 15% Total CWS in AONB 135 Total CWS in East Devon 276 Total area of CWS in AONB 1817 ha Total area of CWS in East Devon 3351 ha Key habitats and species identified as priorities in the East Devon BAP are: For the whole of the District Lowland Heath Estuaries Urban and garden biodiversity Species rich hedgerows Bats Water voles Great crested newts Heath Lobelia Additional habitats in the East Devon AONB Broadleaved woodland Unimproved grassland Spring-line mires The recent national policy document, the Lawton Report, Making Space for Nature: A review of England s Wildlife Sites and Ecological Network, and the subsequent White Paper The Natural Choice: securing the value of nature, provide a strategic steer for our approach to biodiversity conservation. Lawton sets out the actions needed to enhance the resilience and coherence of England s ecological network in four words: more, bigger, better and joined-up. Biodiversity 2020: A Strategy for England s Wildlife and Ecosystem Services aims to halt overall biodiversity loss, support healthy ecosystems and establish coherent ecological networks, with more and better places for nature for the benefit of wildlife and people. The need for urgent biodiversity action is only part of the picture as other ecosystem services such as water quality and availability are issues that have both medium and long term implications for local communities. The National Association for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (NAAONB) received confirmation of it s Category V status for AONB s in England and Wales in June The reconfirmation followed three years of work between the NAAONB and the UK committee of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 23 Defra - Working with the Grain of Nature (2000) 29

29 Trends and Forces for change The Natural Environment White Paper is a bold and ambitious statement outlining the Government s vision for the natural environment over the next 50 years, backed up with practical action to deliver that ambition. For example the recently formed Devon Local Nature Partnership 24 will influence strategic biodiversity and Geodiversity actions across Devon. The AONB works with landowners and partners to encourage uptake of the Environmental Stewardship scheme, which aims to improve management of key habitats and species CAP reform will influence how this scheme evolves post The South West Nature Map has been produced which shows the best areas, Strategic Nature Areas, to maintain and expand terrestrial wildlife habitats at a landscape scale 25. The AONB is reviewing areas within the AONB and developing opportunities for action. The potential impacts of climate change on the species and habitats of the AONB are only partly understood and require more coordinated action. Devon CC and the AONB team have demonstrated a proven role for Biodiversity Action Planning at the community/parish level and a greater understanding of the habitat and species resource/condition. Habitat and species loss and habitat fragmentation have occurred as a result of intensified land management practices although increasingly measures are being developed to control this 26. The Local Nature Partnership for Devon has been established to protect the environment, grow the green economy and connect people and nature. Government (Defra) targets have been set for both SSSI management and farmland birds 27 covering: the area of SSSIs to be in favourable condition attempting to reverse the long term decline in the number of farmland birds Defra Biodiversity 2020 targets for priority habitat creation for protected landscapes Designation of Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site is serving to develop earth heritage and geological related initiatives There is a continuing need for the sensitive restoration and aftercare arrangements for mineral sites Locally targeted work is being carried out to reduce the spread of invasive species such as Himalayan Balsam and Japanese Knotweed together with Holm Oak and Cherry Laurel in the Undercliffs NNR Key Objective The conservation and enhancement of the biodiversity and geological assets of the AONB. Policies BG 1 In partnership with others, support and encourage conservation and enhancement actions for key habitat and species within the AONB that maintain and enhance landscape character and the historic environment. BG 2 Encourage actions that serve to conserve and promote geo-diversity within the AONB, in particular within the Dorset and East Devon World Heritage Site. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure total percentage of SSSIs in 'favourable' condition (Natural England) EIA Regulations (Agriculture - England - No. 2) (Defra 2006) 30 Key Policy/programme influences Environmental Stewardship Scheme and its successor 28 The Natural Environment White Paper 28 Local Nature Partnerships eg. Devon LNP Lawton Review - Making Space for Nature 29 Ecosystem services - UK National Ecosystem Assessment 29 (NEA) Biodiversity A Strategy for England s wildlife and ecosystem services 29 National Planning Policy Framework 29 Wildlife Trusts Accord with NAAONB (2012) 27 Defra Public Service Agreement (Targets 6 and 7) Priority Actions Secure funding for Devon wide greater Horseshoe bat project and deliver Confirm and deliver actions in support of Defra s Biodiversity 2020 Strategy Agree and help to deliver Strategic Nature Area grassland project with landowners and Natural England Play an active role in the Devon Local Nature Partnership Develop an Ecosystem Services assessment model of the AONB to direct future delivery Kingfisher (photo by

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31 8.4 Coast The East Devon AONB Partnership adopts an approach which recognises and welcomes the economic opportunities for communities presented by the coast, while at the same time maintaining and enhancing the special qualities of the area. Sally King, Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site A vision for the coast The high quality, largely undeveloped and internationally significant coastline is conserved and enhanced, maintaining the highest environmental and design standards and sustaining opportunities for recreation and tourism that has regard for local communities. Description This sub-theme addresses conserving and enhancing the coastal areas of the AONB and defining the AONB relationship to the geodiversity of the World Heritage Site and the marine environment. Background and Evidence Dramatic, impressive and internationally significant, the coastline is a key asset of the AONB, providing significant wildlife habitats and forming an integral element of the areas rich maritime heritage and trading tradition. The varied coastal geology and beaches of the AONB are divided by the main rivers of the Axe and Otter and the smaller Sid. The 29 miles of coast between Exmouth and Lyme Regis is accessed well by the South West Coast Path National Trail. The coast is a valuable resource for peaceful recreation and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike, supporting economic activity through tourism, recreation, boating and fishing. The Heritage Coast 30 status of the coastline, which existed prior to the World Heritage Site inscription, still remains today. Many of the purposes for this status have been subsumed within the activities of the AONB Partnership. A review of Heritage Coasts was carried out in by Natural England The AONB and Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site teams work closely with local authority partners and others in the coastal corridor, developing initiatives and supporting programmes that serve to conserve and enhance the area, engender greater understanding and promote sustainable activity. Whilst the AONB boundary effectively stops at the mean high water line, we have a duty to cooperate with organisations such as the Maritime Management Organisation (MMO) to ensure the special qualities and distinctive character of the AONB are conserved and enhanced. Whilst outside the AONB, the Lyme Bay and Torbay marine Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is now a designated European marine site that is to be managed in line with the requirements of the EC Habitats Directive. Bathing Water Quality in East Devon September Budleigh Salterton Exmouth Newton Poppleford 2 3 Eight beaches along the east Devon coastline are monitored against the EU and UK bathing water standards. In 2012 and 2013, one bathing beach received the Blue Flag Award from Keep Britain Tidy 32 for its high standards and services; Sandy Bay Seaton Beer 7 Sidmouth Sandy Bay 2 - Budleigh Salterton 3 - Ladram Bay 4 - Sidmouth (Jacob s ladder) 5 - Sidmouth Town 6 - Beer 7 - Seaton Higher standard Minimum standard Fail Closed Fishing off Beer Head

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33 Trends and Forces for change There have been water quality improvements across the area as a result of European directives, private investment programmes and Environment Agency supported initiatives which are serving to improve the standard of bathing waters. The adoption of a Shoreline Management Plan provides a strategic framework for coast defence decision-making and investment. The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 divides the UK marine areas into marine planning regions with an associated plan authority (Marine Management Organisation for England) which prepares a marine plan for the area. The South Inshore area includes a coastline that stretches from Dover to the River Dart and planning will begin in Climate and coastal change, storm events and sea level rise will have a major impact on coastal and estuary infrastructure at certain locations and hard decisions will need to be taken about the appropriate response. Natural England and the National Association for AONBs have commended the work being led by Europarc Atlantic Isles on linking land & sea. Strategic Guidance is being offered by Devon Maritime Forum on coastal issues in the county. The confirmation of the Lyme Bay and Torbay SAC will serve to protect the Reef and submerged or partially submerged sea caves in these areas. The Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site Management Plan takes into account the integrity of the Site's designation; the fact that to maintain its global significance, the natural processes such as erosion which act upon the Site must be allowed to continue. Devon Landscape Policy Group is developing an advice note on undeveloped coast. Key Policy/programme influences South Devon and Dorset Coast Shoreline Management Plan 33 Dorset and East Devon WHS Management Plan 34 Marine and Coastal Access Act Marine Planning Policy Statement 36 Europarc Atlantic Isles Making the connection Key Objective The conservation and enhancement of the high quality and internationally significant coastline Policies C 1 Conserve and enhance the tranquil, unspoiled and undeveloped character of the coastline and estuaries and encourage improvements to coastal sites damaged by past poor quality development or intensive recreational pressure. C 2 Support and encourage action that maintains the highest standard of bathing water quality and litter management in the estuaries and along the coast. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure Percentage of time bathing water sites meet imperative standards (Environment Agency) Priority Actions Work collaboratively with key stakeholders to deliver co-ordinated management along the East Devon coastal corridor Encourage appropriate landscape improvements to highly visible holiday parks and coastal car parks Support attempts to address both the causes and consequences of marine and beach litter along the coast, through campaigns such as the Litter Free Coast and Sea initiative, as well as beach clean ups Work with partners such as the Jurassic Coast Team to raise awareness of erosion, natural coastal processes and safety. 34

34 Theme 2 - Sustainability Farming and land management The landscape of the AONB has been largely created by the actions of farmers and landowners over generations, and they will continue to play a key role in its future management. The AONB designation should be seen as offering opportunities for farmers to benefit from tourism and local branding of produce, as well as enhanced access to environmental schemes. Mike Ellingham, National Farmers Union A vision for farming and land management The AONB is a well managed landscape in which every farm and woodland make a positive and profitable contribution to the biodiversity, economy and communities of the AONB Description This sub-theme addresses issues of agriculture, forestry and other land management that in themselves serve to conserve and enhance the environment of the AONB. Background and Evidence Farming remains the principal influence on the AONB and combined with forestry practices has a significant influence on the fabric of the landscape and its archaeological resource. Throughout the previous consultation phases of the Strategy, the public has expressed wholehearted support for farmers. Woodland cover in the AONB is approximately 18%, of which around 2% is thought to be ancient semi-natural woodland 38. With large sections of woodland in commercial forestry, there is potential for significant landscape impact and influence through positive management practices. The recent widespread infection of species such as ash and larch raise concerns over the future of forestry and woodland management. East Devon AONB Total Woodland Area (Hectares) Managed Woodland Area (Hectares) Woodland Managed by Forest Enterprise England Under Managed Woodland Area (Hectares) Percentage of AONB above Mean High Water that is woodland Percentage of Woodland that is Managed Woodland Percentage of woodland that is Woodland Managed by Forest Enterprise England Percentage of Woodland that is Under Managed A B C D (Subset of B) A B A/E B/A C/A D/A 4, , , % 49.3% 13.7% 50.7% Source: Forestry Commission 2011/ Forestry Commission/SW ID (2007) 35

35 9.1.4 The average farm size in Devon is around 43 hectares compared to 57 hectares for the South West as a whole. The region is seeing a downward trend in full time agricultural employment and holding numbers, possibly reflecting the general decline and re-structuring of this industry. The dominant farm type in East Devon AONB is grazing livestock followed by dairy 39 and general cropping There is some arable farming which, because of economic pressures and subsidies, is seeing change in the South West region in areas of oilseed rape, linseed and maize. Combined with the adoption of silage production and the move from spring to autumn sowing of crops, these changes in arable farming are negatively impacting on both landscape and soil. However, there is little data/documentation identifying trends in the impact of soil erosion in the South West. Farming types in East Devon AONB Grazing Livestock (lowland) 47% Dairy 18% Specialist Poultry 2% Horticulture 4% Recent use of synthetic fleece materials to protect root crops has a localised effect on the landscape character of the AONB. The AONB has been a priority area for the delivery of Environmental Stewardship with a wide range of schemes delivered to date, many with the support of the predecessor AONB service. The number of organic producers has fallen each year from its peak in 2009, with a 7.8% fall in the SW in 2012 compared with the previous year. The acreage in conversion in England fell by 24.5% in 2012, and the acreage of organic land has been declining since 2010, so whilst it is still a significant sector it's attractiveness (or profitability) is declining Mixed 6% Cereals 5% General Cropping 18% Source: Defra 2013 Number, value and area of Environmental Stewardship schemes East Devon AONB Scheme number Entry Level plus Higher Level Stewardship Entry Level Stewardship Higher Level Stewardship Organic Entry Level plus Higher Level Stewardship Organic Entry Level Stewardship Grand Total Value 312, , , , ,767 1,130,511 Area 2,529 6,621 1,506 1,197 1,627 13,480 Source: Natural England 2013 Hatway 36

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37 Trends and Forces for change Global markets and energy costs have a significant influence on the viability and activities of farming and forestry practice in the AONB. There is increasing interest in niche and local produce which is helping some landowners to secure better gate prices. The Common Agricultural Policy and increasing regulatory measures are steering change in farming towards greater public and environmental benefit although overall support is reducing. Woodland is increasing in value and there is growing interest in wood as a sustainable energy source. Increased incidence of disease in woodland, e.g. larch, ash demonstrates the need for vigilance and efforts to improve resiliance through active management. Fragmentation of land ownership presents challenges for sustainable management of key habitats Local initiatives are being developed to encourage positive management of small scale woodlands e.g. Axe Woods/Blackdown and East Devon Woodland Association An understanding of the potential impact of climate change on the AONB is required to aid future land management. There is concern over the ability to sustain the management of low (financial) return habitats without the support of agri-environment schemes. There may be pressure for new and probably larger farm buildings as a consequence of agricultural restructuring. Concern over the vulnerability of the historic environment particularly in relation to improved grassland. An increasing number of farmers are seeking to supplement incomes by diversifying into non-agricultural activities providing a more stable/reliable income. Key Policy/programme influences Common Agricultural Policy 40 Rural Development Programme for England 40 Environmental Stewardship Scheme 41 (and its successor) England Woodland Grant Scheme 42 (and its successor) Water Framework Directive 43 UK Forestry Standard 42 UK Woodland Assurance Standard Key Objective A sustainable farming and land management sector that helps to conserve and enhance the character of the AONB Policies FLM 1 Promote and support appropriate and positive land management, diversification and agri-environment schemes that are in keeping with the purposes of AONB designation. FLM 2 Support initiatives that enable the land management sector to adapt to change and remain viable, whilst maintaining and enhancing the special qualities of the AONB. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure % AONB in the Environmental Land Management scheme (Defra) Woodland managed under a FC approved management plan (Forestry Commission) Secondary measure Number of farmers/landowners actively engaged in Catchment Sensitive Farming (Natural England) Priority Actions Actively engage in the Catchment Sensitive Farming programme in the Otter and Axe Influence, support and encourage environmental stewardship and FC approved woodland management schemes Encourage local initiatives to manage or create native hedges, woodlands and orchards 38

38 9.2 Access, Recreation and Tourism The AONB has much to offer for open air recreation and is a popular tourism destination. Our role is to work with others to encourage the right balance; to leave the lightest of footprints whilst continuing to take steps to ensure this special place remains a positive force for the area s economy. Alistair Handyside, Country Land and Business Association A vision for access, recreation and tourism The AONB is a destination for a range of recreation and tourism opportunities that have little impact on the environment which can be accessed by sustainable means and where the quiet enjoyment of the AONB and the benefits for healthy life-style activities are promoted. Description Whilst recreation is not a primary purpose of designation it is recognised that demand should be met, through active management, if this does not harm conservation of natural beauty or the needs of agriculture, forestry and other uses. Background and Evidence With its World Heritage Site designated coast and attractive hinterland, East Devon is a popular destination for tourists, both UK and overseas, with nearly 600,000 staying visits from within the UK and 51,000 stays by overseas visitors in In addition there were nearly 2.5million day visits 43. The coastal towns are connected by the South West Coast Path National Trail which runs through the AONB and is a significant recreational and tourism asset. Studies have indicated that the route generates millions of pounds a year for the region s economy and is of particular value to those tourism providers in close proximity to its corridor 44. UK Tourism is expected to grow by 2.6% a year between 2009 and 2018 (Deloitte 2008) and cultural heritage tourism will drive much of this growth as one of the largest and fastest growing segments in the global tourism marketplace (European Travel Commission 2012) Outside London, Devon remains the UKs premier holiday destination with holiday spend ( ) estimated at 930 million 45. More recent research through the Exeter and Essential Devon Tourism Partnership (2010) showed AONB s to one of the top four attractions of the area. As well as benefiting the local economy, many outdoor activities increase awareness amongst visitors to the countryside and benefit public health. In the AONB these include walking, horseriding, mountain biking, cycling, para-gliding, fishing, swimming and golf amongst others. Attractions of most interest in the Exeter & Heart of Devon region % Respondents Beaches Countryside Local food and drink AONB Exeter City Historic buildings The beaches and countryside are the key draws to the region. However, all the attractions listed have a role to play in promoting the region to different audiences. Dartmoor National Park Jurassic Coast (WHS) South West Coast Path Activities e.g. walking Watching wildlife Arts and crafts 43 South West Tourism (2008) Source: EEDATP 2010 Sample size: 2059 Respondents 44 University of Exeter/SWT (2003)

39 East Devon has a total area of 26,913ha of which 5% is open access. The South West Coast Path is approximately 39km long and the East Devon Way 63km. The public rights of way network amounts to a total of approximately 356km. Interpretation linked to recreational routes, bus services or key sites within the AONB has been developed at a number of locations, notably along the South West Coast Path National Trail corridor and the regionally important East Devon Way long distance footpath, but also at specific sites and village centres in and around the AONB. The AONB supports the promotion of and access to the South West Coast Path which is managed by the East Devon District Council Countryside Service on behalf of the County Council. The development of a Coastal Corridor Action Plan, framed around an access network, with partners in Dorset AONB, Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, local authorities and other bodies has assisted in identifying opportunities for the coordinated management of the corridor. Considerable progress has been made in recent years in improving the Rights of Way network in the area through the Rights of Way Improvement Plan 46. Devon County Council has had a number of Local Public Service Agreements (LPSA): PSA1 for improving access to the countryside, and cycle trips; and PSA2 for increased usage, satisfaction with information and participation in Walking to Health schemes 46. Access to open country by foot, as a result of the CRoW Act 2000 has opened up additional access, albeit small, within the AONB The National Cycle Network Southern Coastal route (NCN Route 2 promoted as part of the Tour de Manche through the Cycle West Interreg project) and the Stop Line Way (NCN 33) running north from Seaton, are currently being developed by Devon County Council through the AONB. The latter offers potential as a green tourism trail linked with the developing Axe Wetland and Natural Seaton initiatives. The AONB is host to a number of popular events each year such as the Grizzly run, Commando Challenge and a growing number of other events such as mountain bike races and vintage car rallies to name but a few. Although of concern, the levels of intrusive sports within the AONB are limited. Larger scale leisure activities include golf courses, with both short /family courses and driving ranges being developed in recent years. Caravanning is a popular leisure activity in the region and there are a number of caravan sites within the AONB, some at sensitive coastal locations. The European leader funded 1SW ( initiative has improved information on the bridleway network in the AONB, principally targeted for offroad mountain biking but also of benefit to horse riders and walkers alike South West Coast Path

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41 Trends and Forces for change There are few dedicated routes for horse riders and cyclists for leisure or utilitarian purposes. Further efforts could be made to increase access for the less able. Coastal access improvements are being developed both nationally and locally. Locally available and publicly accessible open green space plays an important part in the quality of life for local communities. Development and promotion of recreational routes needs to take into consideration sustainable travel opportunities. There is a desire to spread the tourism season to the shoulder periods of spring and autumn through targeted events and special interest activities. Interest in active water based recreation is increasing eg kayaking and jet skiing. The Devon Tourism Partnership is the Destination Management Organisation for Devon. It promotes the Visit Devon brand with a range of marketing initiatives and acts as the voice of Tourism for Devon. Sustainable countryside recreation needs to be promoted for its benefit for healthy active lifestyles and improved mental well-being. Increasing fuel costs are likely to impact on levels of domestic tourism. Recreational route and car park counters installed at key locations throughout the AONB are being used to aid monitoring. The relationship between tourism and the enhancement and care of the landscape would benefit from further development eg. visitor payback. The need to take account of new forms of recreation and their impact on the AONB (eg off road mountain biking and motorised sports). 42 The Devon County Council Parish Paths Partnership (P3) community initiative is helping to maintain and promote local public networks in partnership with local communities. Key Policy/programme influences Coastal access 47 RDPE Sustainable Tourism and its successor Local Transport/Rights of Way Plans (DCC) 48 Heart of Devon & Devon Tourism Partnerships 49 NAAONB, Visit England and Defra Tourism Accord East Devon Health Locality Plan Devon Local Nature Partnership Prospectus: Naturally active task and finish group Key Objective A sustainable access, recreation and tourism sector that is in keeping with AONB purposes and does not harm the conservation of natural beauty or the needs of agriculture, forestry and other uses. Policies ART 1 In partnership with others encourage and support the provision of high quality, sensitive, physical access for as wide a range of users as possible and the on-going sustainable development of key recreational routes where this does not conflict with the conservation of internationally protected sites and species. ART 2 In partnership with others encourage and support sustainable tourism activities within the AONB through the promotion of the special qualities of the AONB, where this would not lead to conflict with the conservation of internationally protected sites and species. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure Percentage of Ease of use of public rights of way (Devon CC) Changes in visitor numbers on key rights of way (AONB) Secondary measure Number of businesses with Green Tourism Business Scheme accreditation (Devon CC) Priority Actions Coordinate promotion and management of the East Devon Way Develop Tourism Charter model for the AONB with partners based on the Europarc Sustainable Tourism Charter Continue to promote and develop links with businesses and the environment Support improvements to the cycle, mountain bike and bridleway network Assist in the integrated management of key access sites eg. Pebblebed Heaths

42 9.3 Planning and Development Positive planning in the AONB does not mean saying no to development; it means promoting forms and types of developments, and the changes they will bring about, that can most positively respect and where possible enhance the special qualities that help define the area. Cllr. Graham Godbeer, Chairman, East Devon District Council A vision for planning and development The special qualities of the AONB landscape are protected, enhanced and conserved by planning policies which are robust enough to ensure that development is both appropriate and compatible with the national importance of the landscape Description Planning controls and the implementation of planning policy has a significant role to play in the conservation and enhancement of the landscape and its wildlife. They are also important tools in ensuring appropriate development is linked to the social and economical well-being of the communities living in the AONB. Background and Evidence The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) continues to afford landscape and scenic beauty in AONBs the highest level of protection in planning policy, in particular under NPPF 115 and 116. It also states that wildlife and cultural heritage are important considerations. The NPPF not only requires the conservation of landscape and scenic beauty in AONBs, but also expects development to help deliver government aspirations for ecological networks. The NPPF has placed significant importance on Local Plans and Local Development Documents. The AONB Partnership has engaged in the Local Plan development for East Devon to ensure that the policies relating to AONBs are appropriate. Planning and the role it has to play in conserving and enhancing natural beauty is critical. The adopted East Devon Local Plan policies play an important role in the protection and enhancement of the landscape. A new Local Plan is in production and it will superceded the current adopted plan and will carry through the positive planning messages. It will be supplemented by a Villages Plan that will set out finer grain detail on development proposals for East Devon s villages. Whilst there is no specific statutory role for AONB Partnerships to engage in the planning process the Partnership will continue to provide support and advice to the local planning authority. The AONB Management Strategy will provide supporting evidence and complementary policy guidance to inform the planning policy document production in East Devon. These documents need to give expression to and set out how the plans and policies of the authority and other bodies will be put into effect. The AONB Management Strategy is directly related to the management of the AONB and other wider policy objectives and the Council s documents should therefore dovetail with this Strategy. The Local Plan for East Devon for the period proposes around 15,000 new homes for the District though they will primarily be located at the main towns of the District and at East Devon s West End. Alongside the new homes, we can expect pressure for development for increased leisure based activity, caravan sites and holiday parks, tourism and golf related development, mineral extraction, telecommunication technology and demands for alternative energy amongst others and these types of uses will continue to influence the nature of the AONB landscape, its tranquillity and its built form. The development of a Landscape Character Assessment for East Devon provides an important supporting tool for advising and supporting the decision making process in planning and development. Guides and strategies have been produced to aid and shape the form and design of development in the countryside, for example, Thatch in Devon 50, the Devon Strategic Stone Study 51 in addition to numerous village and town design statements. AONBs are often requested to comment on development proposals in their areas. East Devon AONB has developed a planning protocol with Devon County and East Devon District Council detailing the AONB involvement in the development management process Devon County Council mineral planning 43

43 Trends and Forces for change The development of a National Planning Policy Framework is presenting new challenges to the interpretation of planning at the local level in particular through the East Devon Local Plan. A number of town and parish councils have produced design guides and parish plans to act as an aid to future development. Parish Councils and their communities have also been actively commenting on potential for development in their villages and some Parishes or local communities may wish to produce their own Neighbourhood Plans. The AONBs in East Devon have the opportunity to develop guidance and policy in partnership with the local planning authority as a means of aiding the conservation and enhancement of the AONB. The desire to retain character in the rural environment through the development of guidance on building design, pattern and scale which may have implications for locally sourced materials eg conservation quarries. Recent changes in the planning system have removed or lessened restrictions on certain types of development such as extensions and loft conversions. They have also provided some flexibility to bring forward more innovative approaches to supporting local desired development that could for example include affordable housing. The tranquillity of the AONB is gradually being eroded through increased traffic, air transport, light pollution and built development. The development of a Landscape Character Assessment acts as a supporting tool in future policy development and the development control process and is helping to influence research into capacity and sensitivity for various forms of development. The use of redundant farm buildings offers opportunities for diversification of the rural economy but it requires careful consideration in order to retain local distinctiveness and character. Through the National Planning Policy Framework, English World Heritage sites are placed on the same national footing as conservation areas, national parks and areas of outstanding beauty by including them in the national planning protection process 52. The development of new technologies and renewable energy is having an increasing impact on the AONB. Key Policy/programme influences National Planning Policy Framework 53 East Devon District Council Local Plan 54 (current, adopted and emerging) Landscape Character Assessments for Devon 55 and East Devon 54 Devon Landscape Policy Group advice notes e.g. Advice Note 2: accommodating wind and solar pv in Devons landscape Key Objective Planning development and policy protects the special landscape character and tranquillity of the AONB and will enable appropriate forms of social and economic development that are compatible with the landscape, so conserving and enhancing the environment. Policies P 1 Encourage the development of guidelines and design guides to support high quality sustainable development which complements and respects the AONB landscape and historic character. P 2 Provide advice and support on planning policy and development to enable the special qualities of the AONB to be protected, conserved and enhanced. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure Number of emerging/adopted Neighbourhood Plans (EDDC) Number of applications commented upon by the AONB and included in decisions (AONB) Priority Actions Continue to influence the policy framework for development through the establishment of appropriate guidelines and tools and close liaison with planning and policy teams on their implementation. Support the development of village, town, neighbourhood plans/guides Respond to planning consultations in accordance with the AONB planning protocol. 44

44 9.4 Transport and Highways How we get about and connect our various transport modes is vital to our individual and collective prosperity and welfare. There are many improvements and changes we can make but we must ensure we do so in a way that respects the AONB landscape. Cllr. Jim Knight, Devon County Council A vision for transport and highways The AONB highways network is designed and maintained with landscape in mind and serves an area where there is a culture for reduced traffic impact, improved public transport services and flexible sustainable transport opportunities. Description The AONB engages in transport related initiatives particularly where they concern sustainable transport opportunities and improving access to the countryside. There is increasing demand for sensitive approaches to highways treatment and design in protected landscapes Railway stations serving the AONB are good, located at the peripheral towns of Honiton, Axminster and Exmouth and a tramway operates between Seaton and Colyton. Increasingly public transport links are being made to these stations and the countryside around them in an effort to reduce the number of visitors to the AONB who travel by car. There are a number of permanent traffic counter sites in or on the edges of the AONB, managed by Devon County Council. Average annual daily traffic flows at these sites between 2000 and 2011 are shown in the following table. Table 2 Traffic volumes at locations in East Devon ,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 A3052 Halfway House A3052 Hollyhead Road A375 Putts Corner Background and Evidence East Devon AONB is a relatively quiet rural area with undulating and winding rural lanes, lined with steep sided Devon hedge banks. Few major roads pass through the AONB and only one town of any notable size, Budleigh Salterton, is located within its boundary. However, it has on its borders the larger towns of Exmouth, Seaton, Sidmouth, Ottery St Mary, Honiton and Axminster and nearby, the city of Exeter. The tranquil areas of Devon have reduced in size since the 1960s, largely as a result of the changes to the road networks, air traffic and urban intrusion, with a 14% loss in total area in Devon 56. The rural community has played a role in this, with over 84% of households in East Devon having at least one car compared to 74.4% nationally 57. Improvements to the A30 and A35 have been carried out in recent times and there is pressure for further improvements to the A303 to the north of the AONB. Alongside these, the new community of Cranbrook, currently being developed to the north-west of the AONB, near Rockbeare, will undoubtedly bring with it increased numbers of car borne visitors to the area. 56 The Devon Landscape, Devon CC (2002) , There are a range of initiatives underway that are serving to enhance the safety and quality of the road network and promote sustainable travel, such as the X53 Jurassic Coast bus services. These include examples such as the Sidmouth Coast Hopper; bus and ride initiatives in the coastal corridor; the National Cycle Network including the Stop Line Way and the development of safe routes to school. The Devon and Torbay Local Transport Plan 3 (LTP3) plays a key role in developing opportunities for addressing many of the above transport issues. The Plan identifies a number of priorities for delivering action and reference to objectives relating to a Coastal Towns and Rural Devon Strategy including a low carbon approach to travel and making Devon the place to be naturally active through investment in the leisure network. The Implementation Plan in relation to the AONB specifically refers to Park and Change sites and the potential for marine transport along the coast

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46 Trends and Forces for change There is a continual need to integrate transport services with tourism and recreation activities as well as improve provision for rural commuters. The AONB and World Heritage Site teams have worked with partners to support sustainable transport related schemes through a range of mechanisms including the Sustainable Development Fund. There is a need to improve interpretation provision at key car park locations in the AONB. Promotional materials for the AONB need to take into consideration sustainable transport opportunities. There is an increasing desire for the development of sustainable access routes to reduce the need for transport in and around towns and villages and where possible to make use of old railway lines. The protected landscapes in Devon have established a protocol with the County highway departments addressing the landscape impacts of highways management and proposals. There are opportunities to explore options for through ticketing of public transport and local attractions. A Jurassic Coast Marine Links initiative is being developed. Devon County Council is currently producing a flood risk management strategy which may adapt the solutions required to highway schemes eg. soft landscaping in place of traditional engineering solutions. Key Policy/programme influences Devon and Torbay Local Transport Plan 3 ( ) 59 Highway Management in Devon s Protected Landscapes 59 Devon County Council Flood Risk Management Strategy Key Objective The impact on the special qualities of the AONB is considered in the planning and provision of transport networks and services. Policies T 1 Promote the development of high quality, integrated and sustainable transport services and initiatives in and around the AONB where compatible with conserving natural beauty and the conservation objectives of European sites. T 2 Work to ensure road and transport schemes within the AONB have regard to the purpose of AONB designation. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure Traffic counts at fixed locations in/near the AONB (Devon CC) Priority Actions Contribute to the development of sustainable transport initiatives within the AONB including the potential for marine transport Investigate options to monitor and identify tranquil areas within the AONB; including the creation of a network of quiet lanes Encourage and support village gateway signs promoting the AONB Encourage and support on/off road access linkages and routes for all users

47 9.5 Rural Economy and Services In a rural area with such a high proportion of micro businesses and small to medium enterprises, it is important that the AONB Partnership continues to play an influential role in support of the local economy and services. Greg Page-Turner, East Devon Business Group A vision for rural economy and services The AONB economy is robust and able to adapt and is sustaining local communities, services and businesses, whilst operating in harmony with the conservation and enhancement of the outstanding landscape. Description This sub-theme addresses elements of the rural economy, for example agriculture, forestry, and other less land based rural industries and the economic and social needs of the local communities of the AONB. Background and Evidence It is widely recognised that the prosperity of the rural economy will determine what the countryside will look like in the future. Covering some 37% of the region, protected landscapes will play an integral role in driving forward rural regeneration and sustainable economic growth through such mechanisms as the Rural Development Programme for England Tourism is a significant economic force in the South West and farming is adapting through diversification in the form of farm-based accommodation and in other ways to capitalise on this opportunity. Interest in large scale renewable energy schemes has grown since the previous strategy, largely incentivised by tariffs, encouraging expansion has across the South West both outside and within protected landscapes. Access to services is obviously challenging for a largely rural area. Over 99% of all households in Devon which are located more than 6km from a principal doctor's surgery and/or more than 6km from a secondary school. Similarly, 83% of all Devon households more than 10km from a principal Job Centre are also rurally located 61. Whilst helping drive business and communications, rural broadband cannot cure all constraints associated with service provision to rural areas. Size of businesses in the Blackdown Hills/East Devon AONB Area Business size Sole Trader (1 employee) Respondents from Blackdown Hills/ East Devon (n = 358) All respondents (n = 3541) 25.4% 22.7% Devon has higher levels of employment than the UK average and is characterised by many small businesses. East Devon has a high number of VAT registered businesses and there are a high number of micro businesses and self employment. Economic trends for East Devon also show low levels of unemployment in the District. 60 Whilst having a significant number of units in the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector, the role of agriculture and land based industries is declining in rural Devon generally whilst service, tourism, transport, communication, finance, insurance and public services increase. Micro (2-9 employees) Small (10-49 employees) Medium ( employees) Large ( employees) Corporate ( employees) 53.3% 54.2% 18.4% 19.5% 2.3% 2.6% 0.6% 0.9% 0% 0% Total 100% 100% Source: Devon Renaissance Business Survey (2006/7) Devon Community Council (2009)

48 Trends and Forces for change Interest in sustainable/organic farming, regionalised and branded foods, of quality niche markets and direct selling do not hold all the answers but may provide a means of sustaining small/family farmers in the region. The evolution of broadband and communication systems and the desire to adopt more sustainable lifestyles offer opportunities for more flexible working patterns and employment opportunities in rural areas but provision is patchy. East Devon Farmers markets have been established in local market towns such as Seaton. The district council is working in partnership with others to provide business advice support to local businesses. Opportunity for landowners to secure economic gain from tariffs for large scale renewable energy schemes is likely to impact on the character of the AONB. Designation of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site is bringing increased profile to the area, in particular influencing the offer within the tourism sector. The relationship between the National Planning Policy Framework and Local Plan will be a key determinant in the development and economic growth of East Devon and village services. The Making it Local RDPE funding has been secured to strenghten the connections between the business sector, local services and markets and landscape management in the Blackdown Hills and East Devon AONBs and there is a desire to continue this approach. There is a need to develop an integrated approach to business, planning and environmental support/advice within east Devon. Government rural funding is increasingly being channelled through Local Economic Partnerships which AONBs have yet to establish a clear relationship with. Key Policy/programme influences Exeter and Heart of Devon Economic Development Strategy 62 National Planning Policy Framework 63 Rural Economy Growth Review 63 Heart of the South West Local Economic Partnership 64 Business Plan and EU Investment Fund Strategy Lord Heseltine s review No stone unturned in pursuit of economic growth 65 The Rural Development Programme 2015 Ian Shears, Acland Award winner Key Objective A sustainable rural economy that serves to conserve and enhance the special qualities of the landscape. Policies RES 1 Encourage the principle of local markets and sustainable local produce where it adds value to the local economy and contributes to the AONB purpose of designation. RES 2 Encourage the development of sustainable employment opportunities that are compatible with the AONB purpose and objectives, promote good design and encourage people to continue to live and work within in their communities. RES 3 In partnership with others develop monitoring and research that serves to quantify and assess the economic value of the environment in the AONB. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure Number of businesses supporting local farmers markets (East Devon Farmers Markets) Priority Actions Secure legacy programme funding for the Making it Local RDPE programme and develop relationship with Local Economic Partnership Support and encourage local produce/supply networks Support local businesses in the development of the environmental economy and complementary programmes 49

49 9.6 Community and Culture We are fortunate in that we already have a long standing and geographically spread civic amenity network across the AONB. The Partnership is committed to working with these groups, local councils and communities to enhance support of our aims and purposes. Nicola Daniel, Otter Valley Association A vision for community and culture The AONB is an area where communities have an active association with the landscape and where local events serve to reinforce this relationship, maintain local traditions, and support the local economy. Mechanisms have been established that address local housing need and enable the provision and long term use of community buildings and resources. Description This sub-theme addresses aspects of community and cultural characteristics of the AONB and the ways in which the Partnership engages with and supports local communities. Background and Evidence East Devon, being a largely rural district with a coastal boundary, is an attractive place for those wishing to retire and enjoy the later years of their life, surrounded by an outstanding landscape. The AONB population, has a high proportion of residents between over the age of 65, reflecting the District profile. Proportion of population by broad age band, mid England years Age Group For the second time, Devon came top of a survey conducted by Country Life Magazine as the most desirable County in England 66 and a survey carried out for East Devon demonstrated the significance of the natural environment to the quality of life for residents in the district 67. However, as well as being a popular place to visit and retire to, East Devon District is also home to a local working population that is increasingly finding pressures being placed on access to housing and services. There are over 2400 second homes in East Devon and studies show that affordable housing remains a key concern. The average house price in East Devon is around 266,800 but the district is one of the lowest wage areas in England 67. Devon population projections Projected percentage rise in population by age (DCC area) % 3% 8% 10% 57% 63% 157% 0% 50% 100% 150% 200% Projected % population rise Source: DCC 2010 South West years 65+ years East Devon % 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Source: ONS

50 The latest housing needs assessment for the whole of the Exeter and Torbay Housing Market Area quantified a net additional five year housing need (i.e. end of 2007 to end of 2012) for the East Devon district for all forms of housing, of 3,211 dwellings. Of this total there was a quantified need for 1,243 affordable dwellings or around 40% of total market and affordable need 68. Average house prices in East Devon , , , ,781 Source: ONS/EDDC Whilst the population of East Devon District has increased, average household size has fallen 68. The pressure for new development and changes in technology will continually challenge the desire to maintain the character and traditional land based skills of local communities in the AONB, whilst seeking to provide for a viable and sustainable economy Communities have an inherent capacity to care for and enhance their environment. Initiatives such as the lottery funded Your Heritage, Parish Planning and examples such as the AONB Parishscapes Project and a range of community level initiatives delivered by many of our partners have all helped support local action and enterprise across the AONB. Many parishes, in recognising the economic and health benefits of the landscape, have encouraged the production of leaflets, guides and village features, cultural events and activities to raise awareness and inform visitors and tourists. A Sustainable Community Plan for East Devon, produced by the East Devon Local Strategic Partnership aims to improve quality of life in East Devon by promoting the social, economic and physical well being of its communities It is inevitable that over time community identity and culture will evolve as the composition and population of the AONB changes. Some rural communities are fortunate in having a range of skills within their population to tackle the challenges of living in a rural area. In some cases, this will be as a direct result of people moving into the area, with varying skills and experience. The picture is extremely mixed however. As a result, there are a wide range of schemes, agencies and organisations such as Making it Local, the AONB Partnership, Community Council for Devon, Natural England and local authorities, seeking to support skills development and encourage self help and the celebration of local distinctiveness Tree planting 51

51 Trends and Forces for change Parish Plans and Community Council led initiatives have served to stimulate grass-roots rural community and cultural action. The National Planning Policy Framework identifies opportunity for the development of Neighbourhood Plans. There is an opportunity to connect people and place through the inclusion of wildlife, historic environment and landscape issues in neighbourhood plans. There is an active voluntary community within East Devon, which correlates with its population composition and age structure and is exemplified by associations and societies in the Sid Vale, Axe Vale, and Otter Valley. The LEADER+ programme of local community action Making it Local across Blackdown Hills and East Devon AONB has supported a wide range of community projects across the area. Heritage projects such as In the Footsteps of Peter Orlando Hutchinson and other partner initiatives are helping local communities further understand and interpret their cultural heritage. The Jurassic Coast WHS Arts and AONB programmes are offering opportunities for creative/arts activity in the AONB. Affordable housing, access to and provision of local services is a concern for many rural communities across Devon and the South-West. The Sustainable Development Fund is enabling the AONB Partnership to support a wider range of community, environmental and cultural projects. Key Policy/programme influences Sustainable Community Plan for East Devon 69 Sustainable Community Strategy for Devon 70 National Planning Policy Framework and neighbourhood planning 71 RDPE Local Action programme Making it Local, or its successor Key Objective Improved access to services and facilities and the active participation in community and appropriate landscape related social enterprise. Policies Policies CC 1 Support local community engagement in CC physical, 1 Support cultural local and community natural heritage engagement initiatives within physical, the cultural AONB. and natural heritage initiatives within the AONB. CC 2 Work with others to strengthen community capacity, CC 2 Work resources, with others information, to strengthen services community and facilities within capacity, the resources, AONB where information, these contribute services and to the facilities within AONB the purpose AONB of where designation. these contribute to the AONB purpose of designation. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure Measuring Number of progress parish, town (Theme and neighbourhood indicator) plans Primary or their measure equivalent (East Devon DC) Secondary Number of measure parish and town councils with up to date Membership parish or numbers town plans of the or their Otter equivalent Valley Association, (East Devon DC) Sid Vale Association and Axe Vale & District Conservation Society (Amenity Groups) Secondary measure Priority Membership Actions numbers of the Otter Valley Association, Actively engage Sid local Vale Association community groups and Axe and Vale & District organisations Conservation in AONB Society projects (Amenity and activities Groups) Support and encourage the development of local services and facilities Support and advise community level plan development Sidmouth 52

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53 10.0 Theme 3 - Communication and Management Communication, Education and Awareness Education - be it through formal schools, lifelong learning, awareness events or public communication - underpins everything the AONB designation encompasses and the Partnership seeks to achieve. James Chubb, The Donkey Sanctuary A vision for communication, education and awareness There is a high level of awareness of the AONB designation, the Partnership s activities and the wide range of opportunities and media available. This is enabling people and businesses to engage with, learn more about and benefit from the opportunities this special landscape has to offer. Description This sub-theme deals with the many and varied ways in which people learn about and are informed of the countryside and the ways in which information and data is used to inform the activities of the Partnership. Background and Evidence The ways in which we inform people about the AONB have previously focussed on road signs, footpath markers, interpretation boards, leaflets, events, walks and website. However, people are increasingly accessing information in other ways and the Partnership must be able to respond in a positive way to this. Recent examples include mobile phone listening points to help interpret remote or sensitive locations, thus making them intellectually accessible by more people Environmental education initiatives as provided by the Offwell Woodland and Wildlife Trust and Blacklake Farm have received support from the AONB in furthering and sustaining their aims. In addition programmes such as the Forest Education Initiative and Forest Schools are helping to provide further opportunity for hands on learning about the environment in and around schools. The Jurassic Coast Team delivers a site wide formal education and engagement programme about the geology and geomorphology of the Jurassic Coast and aspects of the AONB. During the London 2012 Games, 11 schools in East Devon participated in the flagship London 2012 Inspire Mark education programme "The Big Jurassic Classroom" where they learnt how the Olympic and Paralympic Values could be used to celebrate their local World Heritage Site. Funding from the Primary Science Teaching Trust will deliver enhanced science teacher development programmes for East Devon Primary schools over the next three years. In addition to our local civic groups, RSPB, Devon Wildlife Trust and others activities, the District Council have established a high profile environmental education programme, providing a wide range of activities on Local Nature Reserves, coastal festivals, a Junior ranger and volunteer programme and joint initiatives promoting local food. The results of a public perception survey carried out in 2003, 2008 and 2013 has shown a steady improvement in the levels of awareness of the East Devon AONB amongst local residents. Percentage of respondents who have heard of the East Devon AONB Information technology development and improved broadband coverage is being promoted through the business sector and is supported by public sector support initiatives such as Connecting Devon and Somerset 72. Within IT development, mobile applications and the use of social media to spread messages from the AONB Partnership and encourage engagement is an important inclusive tool % 70% 91%

54 Trends and Forces for change Interpretation, awareness and education of the special qualities of the AONB need further development and integration with tourism and recreation activities. Work by the National Association for AONBs (NAAONB) is helping to brand and strengthen the identity of AONBs nationally. Environmental education activity is developing through the District Council Local Nature Reserve (LNR) network, World Heritage Site Education Officer, and through local organisations and programmes. The AONB web site and associated social media platforms are enabling a wider interaction with interest groups and communities across the AONB. There is an ongoing requirement to enhance access to and awareness and appreciation of the special flora and fauna of the AONB. There is a continual need to inform and raise awareness of the AONB in establishing links with community organisations. There is still a need for the AONB to provide information to develop and encourage links between business sector and the natural environment.eg. Ambassador scheme Inclusion and participation of audiences, including hard to reach potential audiences such as minority, disadvantaged and other hard to reach groups, should be addressed in the delivery of policies and promotion. Development of IT based communication will influence AONB Partnership promotional work Key Policy/programme influences AONB and NAAONB branding guidelines NAAONB Communications Strategy Dorset and East Devon World Heritage Site Management Plan Key Objective A greater awareness of the AONB, the purposes of the designation, the role of the Partnership and range of opportunities for involvement in environmental education. Policies CEA 1 In partnership with others promote and support the education, understanding and appreciation of the natural and cultural landscape of the AONB. CEA 2 Promote and highlight good practice within the AONB and the role and activities of the AONB Partnership. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure Levels of awareness of the AONB designation and purpose (AONB 5 yearly) Priority Actions Promote the AONB and work of the Partnership Survey local communities on levels of awareness and understanding of the AONB Provide information and educational materials on the AONB web site and associated media Continue to develop ambassador schemes for the AONB/World Heritage Site 55

55 10.2 Management, Organisation & Partnerships Anyone in a relationship knows only to well that a successful partnership takes time, commitment, dialogue and trust if it is to work well. John Wilding, MBE, Clinton Devon Estates A vision for management, organisation & partnerships The AONB Partnership will act as ambassadors for East Devon AONB, influence policy and decision making affecting AONBs and work to secure funding for the long-term co-ordinated management of the area and report on its actions Description This sub-theme addresses the operational aspects and processes of the AONB Partnership and Team. Background and Evidence East Devon AONB, although designated in 1963, only put in place specific arrangements for its coordinated governance and management in However, in its first ten years the AONB Partnership has grown into a competent and effective body in steering the delivery of the Strategy. The AONB Partnership was established in March 2003 following a review of the existing governance and management of the AONB in The main catalyst for the establishment of a new AONB Partnership and formation of an AONB Team was the requirement of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 to produce a Management Strategy for the AONB by March The membership of the AONB Partnership has adapted, with the addition of new partners from the countryside, business and heritage sector. In addition, the Terms of Understanding detailing the working arrangements have been updated to improve operations and procedures. AONB Partnership The funding arrangements for the AONB are detailed in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the three funding partners for the Partnership: East Devon District Council, Devon County Council and Defra. The current MOA runs to March Defra funding, provided as a single pot for the AONB, is currently divided into three areas: core, project and the Sustainable Development Fund (SDF). Core funding is the funding required to maintain and service the AONB Partnership and Team. Project funding, matched to other sources of funding, enables the delivery of the Management Strategy through coordinated projects and initiatives. The SDF is wholly funded through Defra and the Partnership delivers this fund to support sustainable development initiatives across the area. The funding arrangements as laid out in the Memorandum of Agreement for the AONB are such that 75% of core costs come via Defra and the remaining 25% is divided between Devon County and East Devon District Council. 56

56 In the core budget for the Partnership and team was approximately 155,000, Defra funding 75% of this and East Devon District and Devon County Council the remaining 25%. A further 40,000 project funding from Defra was divided between the Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) at approximately 30,000 and a Project Development Fund of 10,000. Both East Devon District and Devon County Councils provided additional funding on a project basis. There are significant pressures and opportunities for the AONB team to add value and join up programmes and processes within the East Devon, Devon and the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, which have many overlapping programmes and areas of work. This also applies to the relationship with the Blackdown Hills AONB which was the subject of a review in which identified a number of opportunities for closer working arrangements many of which are still under consideration. Joint working amongst AONB's in Devon is encouraged and supported at the County level; an Adaptation Plan was produced in 2011 which contained a number of measures which are still relevant to pursue. Regional and national AONB operations have been restructured with the South West Protected Landscape Forum (SWPLF) merging with the National Association for AONBs (NAAONB) to enable the AONB family to operate at broader and more strategic level and influence policy and programme development affecting AONBs.. Harcombe

57 Trends and Forces for change There is continual need to assess, foster and develop links with local and sub-regional agencies in the delivery of the AONB Management Strategy recognising the increasingly declining resources within these agencies. There is a need to keep under review and realise opportunities for joint project working and governance arrangements with other partners and AONB's, in particular with Dorset, Devon and the Blackdown Hills AONBs. It is important that the Partnership looks to broaden its funding base for core and project activity through Lottery, Landfill, European or other support mechanisms with recent examples such as INTERREG (landscape), SITA (bats), HLF (heritage), English Heritage (heritage) and the Rural Development Programme for England (rural economy). The composition and operation of the AONB Partnership is kept under regular review to ensure it remains effective and appropriate in execution of its purposes. The funding arrangements with Defra will be reviewed in 2014/15 in preparation for the next spending period. A recent proposal to consider the evidence for a National Park encompassing the East Devon and Dorset AONBs highlights the value local communities place on our outstanding landscapes. Key Policy/programme influences AONB and NAAONB Business Plan Defra funding programme for AONBs UK and European funding programmes, including HLF funding Strategy and Leader East Devon AONB team (above top) and former Chairmen Key Objective The AONB Partnership will act as ambassadors for East Devon AONB, influence policy and decision making affecting AONBs and work to secure funding for the long-term co-ordinated management of the area, annually reporting on its actions. Policies M1 Encourage co-ordination and partnership amongst the wide range of national and regional agencies and organisations and other Devon based AONBs to secure funding for the care and enhancement of the AONB. M2 Ensure that the AONB Management Strategy is reviewed every 5 years and that the Delivery Plan is annually updated and made publicly available. Measuring progress (Theme indicator) Primary measure Production of a publicly available Annual Review and Business Plan (AONB) Secondary measure Operational efficiency savings since 2003 Priority Actions Produce and deliver Annual AONB Business Plan /AONB Delivery Plan Secure Memorandum of Agreement with Defra and LA partners Secure additional funding in support of AONB objectives and programmes Continue to review AONB operations and working arrangements 58