New conservation strategy launched to protect key wildlife sites
The South East Devon Wildlife – Joint Habitats Sites Mitigation Strategy 2025–2030 covers the Exe Estuary, East Devon Pebblebed Heaths, and Dawlish Warren.
It has been formally adopted by East Devon District Council, Teignbridge District Council, and Exeter City Council.
Geoff Jung, chairman of the South East Devon Habitat Regulations Executive Committee and portfolio holder for environment at East Devon District Council, said: "This strategy reflects our collective duty to protect South East Devon's internationally important wildlife — not just for today, but for the benefit of future generations."
Developed by Footprint Ecology, the scheme builds on the previous 2016–2025 strategy and was created in partnership with Natural England, the Pebblebed Heaths Conservation Trust, the Exe Estuary Management Partnership, Devon Wildlife Trust, RSPB, and others.
It outlines mitigation measures funded through developer contributions from new housing built within 10km of the protected sites.
The reserves hold some of the UK's highest conservation designations, including Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), and Ramsar sites.
The strategy includes education schemes, visitor patrols, upgraded paths and signs, improved parking, and the creation and maintenance of wildlife refuges for overwintering birds.
Regular monitoring will also be carried out to ensure the measures remain effective.
Gary Taylor, executive member for planning and building control at Teignbridge District Council, said: "By working together, we're delivering smarter, more effective protection across boundaries and ecosystems."
Ruth Williams, portfolio holder for city management at Exeter City Council, said: "We're proud to be part of this ground-breaking initiative — a true partnership for sustainable development."
The strategy aims to manage the impact of increased visitor numbers resulting from new housing developments.
Without intervention, rising recreational use could threaten the wildlife and habitats that the sites are meant to protect.
Full details of the plan are available on the South East Devon Wildlife website.
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