147 - Blackdowns : Summary and Headline Statements of Environmental Opportunity

Summary

Long, dark ridges, deep valleys and dynamic cliffs are the essence of the Blackdowns National Character Area (NCA). The ridges create prominent backdrops from afar and offer far-reaching views. Flat plateaux, large, regular fields and long, straight roads create a sense of openness and uniformity on the ridges. Beech hedgerows and avenues enclose the grazed landscape, although areas of remnant common, lowland heath and scrub still exist, providing open access.

Woodland, much of semi-natural origin, dominates the steep valley tops, creating sinuous dark edges to the ridges; some conifer plantations also exist and intrude onto the plateaux. Below the wooded edge pastoral valleys feature with a medieval field pattern of small, irregular fields bounded by dense species-rich hedgebanks and hedgerow trees, creating an enclosed, tranquil setting. A myriad of springs and streams flow south through the valleys and can often be traced by semi-natural habitats: springline mires, rush pasture and carr woodland. Some valley floors widen and provide an opportunity for arable production, notably the Axe Valley which is characterised by a much wider flood plain. The entire River Axe within the NCA is designated for its biodiversity value, notably lamprey and bullhead fish.

Along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site tall red sandstone cliffs abut the starkly contrasting white chalk before passing into grey clay and limestone to the east. The geology results in frequent landslips and constantly changing coastal features: beaches, stacks and bars. Natural erosion also maintains internationally important fossil-rich exposures. The South West Coast Path National Trail follows the coastline, providing access to the wind-blown cliff-top plateaux with exhilarating views and the steeply enclosed, tranquil combes.

The NCA’s ridge and valley topography has influenced settlement since prehistoric times, with bronze-age barrows and iron-age hill forts on elevated sites. The medieval pattern of settlement along springlines or clustered at river or road crossings remains evident. During the Regency era textile industries promoted the growth of inland market towns and ‘fashion’ established coastal resorts, coinciding with the development of the railways. Much recent development for housing and tourism has centred on these towns. Despite this growth the Blackdowns NCA retains a very rural character, with a strong sense of place, a rich biodiversity resource and opportunities to enjoy quiet recreation. These attributes are reflected in 78 per cent of the area being designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Headline Statements of Environmental Opportunity (SEO)

See the Statements of Environmental Opportunity section for more details on the headlines listed below.

SEO 1

Manage the coastal and estuarine landscape with its diversity of cliffs, geology, geomorphology, palaeontology, historic features, habitats and associated wildlife, contributing to livelihoods, enjoyment and education of people.

SEO 2

Protect and manage the tranquil, enclosed valleys and the network of streams, springs and associated semi-natural habitats set within a farmed landscape, for the maintenance and enhancement of livelihoods, public enjoyment and ecosystem services.

SEO 3

Protect and manage the open, exposed character of the ridgetop plateaux and the associated rich cultural heritage. Plan for the restoration and extension of semi-natural habitats and promote and create opportunities to enhance public understanding and enjoyment.

SEO 4

Protect the relatively unsettled, rural character of this nationally important landscape, maintaining open skylines and historic settlement form. Reflect the local vernacular and geodiversity in new development and encourage provision of high-quality green infrastructure.