This is a high, wild, bleak and evocative landscape which forms the skyline to many views within and beyond Dartmoor National Park to the south, west and east. Although smaller in extent than High Dartmoor North, it can feel even more remote from significant areas of settlement. It is covered in extensive areas of blanket bog and mire which form the sources of many of South Devon’s rivers. The landscape is devoid of modern settlement, roads or other features, yet presents a rich archaeological heritage in the forms of prehistoric ceremonial sites and settlements, and later evidence of mining activity, peat extraction and clay working. It is a landscape which is highly valued for its nature conservation importance, and also for its vital role as a water catchment. In this exposed landscape, the weather has a strong influence on the sense of place, ranging from all-encompassing rain and mist to clear skies, strong colours and outstanding views across south Devon to the sea.
This area comprises the highest land to the south of the Dart valley and forms an upland plateau covered by blanket bog. At the edges of the area there is a gradual transition into the surrounding character areas of Central Dartmoor to the north, and Southern Dartmoor and Fringes to the south.
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/landscape/dartmoor-area/high-dartmoor-south
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/landscape/devon-character-areas
Planning Strategy
To protect the remote, open character and special qualities of this landscape within Dartmoor National Park, and its role as an open skyline within views from the National Park and surrounding areas. The blanket bog, mires and moorland are managed to retain and enhance their biodiversity, and enable them to fulfil their important roles in carbon sequestration and water catchment and storage. Optimum grazing levels enable the maintenance of open moorland but without causing erosion. The landscape’s time-depth continues to have a strong influence, with archaeological sites and their settings protected and enhanced where necessary. The landscape is used and enjoyed for recreation, but at levels which do not cause long term damage. The landscape retains its sense of remoteness, wildness and tranquillity.
