The central focus of this area is the prominent wooded ridge of Pebble Beds which has a distinctive pattern of heaths and former commons (including areas of gorse, scattered pines, and notable tree groups) and woodland (both beech and conifer plantation). The ridge with its blocks of largely plantation woodland creates a recognisable skyline feature and focus for surrounding areas including the Exe Estuary, undulating farmland and the Otter valley. The areas of heath and woodland give rise to a wild, colourful and untamed feel and a sense of remoteness despite the area being highly popular for recreation. From more open areas on the ridge there are panoramic views across surrounding farmland and to the coast. In the north the ridge declines in height and the farmland has a semi-urban character affected by urbanising influences and horticulture. In the lower Otter valley the historic settlement pattern above the valley floor, valley meadows and pastoral character are distinctive, set between the Pebble Bed ridge to the west and the sharply rising slopes of the greensand ridges to the east.
This area comprises a north-south orientated prominent ridge and surrounding undulating farmland which is visually influenced by the ridge. To the north and west the outer edges of this area are transitional as the dominance of the ridge declines and the landform drops in elevation into the Clyst Lowlands. To the south the area is bounded by the Sidmouth and Lyme Bay Coastal Plateau and to the east by the sharply rising edge of the greensand ridges. This character area includes the lower reaches of the Otter valley to the east.
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/east-devon-area/pebble-bed-heaths-and-farmland
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/landscape/devon-character-areas
Planning Strategy
To protect the landscape’s role as a visual focus and distinctive wooded skyline for surrounding landscapes, strengthening its special qualities and features – in particular its lowland heath habitats and distinctive tree groups. Opportunities are sought to restore conifer plantations to broadleaved and heathland habitats. Field patterns are reinforced through the restoration and management of distinctive beech hedgebanks. Distinctive tree clumps on the heath as well as valley-side woodlands are managed; and wetlands are expanded to help prevent downstream flooding and protect water quality. The landscape’s time-depth continues to have a strong influence, whilst opportunities for sustainable recreation and limited low-carbon development are sensitively accommodated. The peaceful and historic character of nucleated settlements is enhanced.
