The River Torridge flows in a series of looping meanders through dramatic gorges with dark forested sides; through open pastoral valley floors with valley sides cloaked in ancient woodland, and through tidal mudflats echoing to the call of seabirds. The river is home to otters, which dart about in its clear waters, and is overlooked by ancient defences and historic villages perched high above on the valley sides. This is an intricate, complex and varied landscape, with unexpected views suddenly revealed as landform and vegetation open out.

The River Torridge and its tributaries flow generally northwards, emerging in the Taw-Torridge Estuary at Bideford. The longer (south-eastern) branch of the valley lies between the High Culm Ridges and the West Torridge Upland Farmland, extending south as far as the High Taw Farmland. The shorter western tributary valleys of the Yeo and Duntz lie between the Bideford Bay Coast, the Western Culm Plateau and the West Torridge Upland Moorland.

https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/west-devon-area/torridge-valley  

https://www.devon.gov.uk/planning/planning-policies/landscape/devon-character-areas 

 

Torridge valley on DCC Environment Viewer 

Information on Devon's environment has been mapped on Devon County Council's Environment Viewer. These maps give access to geographic data for Devon on a wide range of topics.

 

Planning Strategy

To protect the landscape’s scenic quality, biodiversity and strong sense of place. Visually-intrusive development in settlements and on skylines beyond the character area is avoided. The area’s woodlands, wetlands and riverbanks are managed to maximise their biodiversity and promote indigenous species such as otters. Archaeological sites and historic features are protected and well managed. Enjoyment of the landscape (for example through the Tarka Trail) is encouraged, but an appropriate balance between recreation and conservation is achieved.

Protect

  • Protect the natural form and features of the river and the dynamic processes that form them e.g. meanders, shingle banks and tidal mud flats.
  • Protect the open character of the valley floor.
  • Protect framed vistas and views across the valley.
  • Protect and restore/ manage historic features such as lime kilns, bridges, canal and railway features.
  • Protect skylines above the valleys from intrusive development.
  • Protect local vernacular building styles, ensuring that any new development is sympathetic in form and style (whilst incorporating sustainable design).

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