The colourful patchwork of fields, thick hedgerows and distinctive red soils visible in this area combine to form a quintessential ‘Devon’ scene. The area is the ‘gateway’ into Devon when viewed from the major transport corridors (road and rail) which pass through it. Its sense of history as a transport corridor is apparent in the Grand Western Canal, which flows serenely through the area, crossed by distinctive bridges. Despite the presence of busy transport routes and several large settlements, the valley of the River Culm retains a peaceful atmosphere, with the tree-lined river meandering through a wide floodplain.
This area is located to the east of Tiverton, and includes land to the east and west of the M5. To the west is an abrupt descent into the Exe Valley, while to the east the land rises sharply where it meets the Blackdown Hills. To the north is a gradual transition into the Bampton and Beer Downs and to the south (beyond the River Culm) lie the Clyst Lowland Farmlands.
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/east-devon-area/mid-devon-area/culm-valley-lowlands
https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/landscape/devon-character-areas
Planning Strategy
To protect the area’s characteristic Devon agricultural landscape, and enhance its role as a gateway into Devon. Agricultural land use is encouraged, and associated features such as hedgerows are well-maintained. The biodiversity of agricultural land is increased. Development in the form of settlements and transport corridors is sensitively accommodated. Links between settlements and the countryside are encouraged, and the recreational, historic and wildlife values of the river valleys are enhanced.
