Half a million pounds of improvements to eleven car parking areas around the Pebblebed Heaths National Nature Reserve have been completed
Over the last 4 years, improvements have taken place at eight car parks: Four Firs, Woodbury Castle, Estuary View, The Warren, Model Airfield, Wheathills, Uphams and Joney’s Cross. Roadside improvements took place at Stowford, Frying Pans and Squabmoor. Six months of scoping, research, design and comprehensive stakeholder engagement resulted in detailed plans which were put to a public consultation in 2019. Several changes were made to the designs because of the feedback, to keep a balance between views of site users, site protection and operational requirements.
A 125-meter multi-use path was installed at Estuary View car park last year, preserving access to breath taking views over the Exe Estuary while helping to prevent deterioration and anti-social behaviour.
With around 1m visitors per year (and growing), the Heaths are popular for walking, cycling and horse riding. To keep the Heaths special for future generations to enjoy and fulfil legal obligations, the South East Devon Habitat Regulations Partnership gave funding known as Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to improve access, ensure the heaths stay a safe and enjoyable place to explore and protect wildlife and heritage. There is improved access for emergency vehicles, increased visibility in car parks to reduce theft, criminal incidents and antisocial behaviour.
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WANTED: Andrew Murphy, Exeter
