The Teign Estuary includes the broad tidal river channel, intertidal areas and adjacent lower slopes. The estuary is defined by steeply rising high rounded hills with distinctive folds to the north and south. The river channel and the intertidal mudflats with their dynamic pattern of winding creeks dominate the landscape, and along with the enclosing hills and expansive cross-estuary views, provide a very strong sense of place. At high tide the estuary becomes a large expanse of water and the changing tides and presence of seabirds and waders add diversity and movement. To the south, there is a succession of sheltered inlets with shingle beaches at the mouths of combes; and intervening sandstone cliffs; while to the north gently rising slopes with an undulating shoreline give way to steeper hills around Bishopsteignton and Teignmouth. On these valley sides land use is predominantly pastoral with strong hedgerow patterns. This is often a busy landscape with movement along transport corridors and recreational activity on the estuary although greater tranquillity can be found within secluded combes and along parts of the estuary shore. This landscape has notable views to adjacent landscapes and other landscapes further afield, including Dartmoor; while at the mouth of the estuary Shaldon and Teignmouth frame views out to sea.
This character area has an east-west alignment comprising the tidal section of the River Teign and adjacent farmland between Newton Abbot in the west and Teignmouth in the east. It is flanked to the north by the rising land which forms the lower slopes of the Haldon Ridge, and to the south by the Breccia Hills and Coast.
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/teignbridge-and-east-devon-area/teign-estuary
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/landscape/devon-character-areas
Planning Strategy
To protect and conserve the scenic quality and nature conservation value of this landscape. Opportunities to conserve and enhance estuary views and intertidal habitats, hedgerows, woodland and historic features are sought. New development respects the character and quality of estuary views. The pattern of fields, hedgerows and narrow lanes continues to reflect the area’s historic and vernacular character.
