Around the Town

Sidmouth’s town landscapes—ranging from coastal edges to managed gardens and riverbanks—support a rich array of biodiversity despite significant human intervention. While these town sites are classified as "brownfield" due to past alterations, they contribute substantially to the local ecological network.

The Coastal Fringe: Resilience in Harsh Conditions

The Seafront and Jacob’s Ladder are characterised by challenging environmental conditions, including nutrient-poor shingle and high salt concentrations that are toxic to most plants.

• Adaptations: Plants here, known as halophytes, thrive by using deep roots to stabilize themselves in shifting ground and waxy leaves to prevent water loss.

• Conservation: A designated beach garden was established in 2013 by volunteers to protect the local plant community and reintroduce specialist species.

• Human Impact: Areas like West Hill and Jacob’s Ladder have been extensively landscaped to provide public paths and recreational access.

Managed Green Spaces and Historical Sites

Sidmouth’s public gardens demonstrate a balance between recreational use and ecological value.

Site Ecological Significance

Connaught Gardens Features sheltered "outdoor rooms" with a mix of exotic and native species.

Blackmore Gardens & Parish Churchyard Home to diverse lichens, mosses, and ferns growing on old lime-mortar walls and tombstones.

The Bowling Green Lawns Hosts waxcap fungi in autumn, which indicates the presence of ancient, undisturbed grassland.

Glen Goyle A restored Victorian parkland that provides a tranquil, semi-natural green space.

Private Refuges and Waterways

Even private and modified environments play a critical role in the town's biodiversity:

• The Lower Sid: Modified in the late 1700s with weirs and concrete walls, this stretch of river is a hostile environment for many species due to fast water flow.

• Powys House: Though private, these five-acre grounds support over 100 recorded species, including Badgers, Red Foxes, and Slow-worms.