Dawlish News

A NEW 10-year action plan to conserve a popular Dawlish tourism and wildlife spot has been revealed.

The scheme, which will come into effect next year and shape the future of Dawlish Warren, goes on public display this month.

The Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve Management Plan 2010–2020 outlines the vision for the future of the area, including measures to maintain, protect and enhance the warren.

It includes plans to protect species and to successfully manage the internationally important dune grassland habitats and birds that rely on the site.

Senior Teignbridge ranger Phil Chambers said: "It's a really significant site in terms of tourism and the local economy.

"The plan sets out how the areas can be managed and protected over the next 10 years. "It's about how we go about continuing to encourage and have public enjoyment of the site and increasing public awareness." The plan looks at ways of conserving the fixed dune grasslands, the low lying areas in the dunes which get flooded periodically and the mobile dunes which are susceptible to visitors. Dawlish Warren attracts some 480,000 visitors every year and is estimated to be worth £60million per year to the local economy. It is also home to several rare species including the Sand Crocus. Cllr Anne Fry, Teignbridge spokeswoman for recreational services, said: "Dawlish Warren is a very important and highly valued site, which supports a large number of rare species while also hosting an extremely popular tourist resort. "As one of Teignbridge's most important green spaces it's vital that we plan for the future, protecting wildlife, plant life and preparing to tackle changing tidal patterns, storms and rising sea levels." Members of the public will be able to view the draft consultation at the Dawlish Warren Visitor Centre on weekends from today until Sunday November 8 or online at www.teignbridge.gov.uk/dawlishwarren Comments on the scheme are welcomed until November 13.