Knapp and Knowle

The Knapp and Knowle Cluster is a group of eight significant sites to the west of Sidmouth town. While each site has its own unique character, their geographical proximity allows them to function as a single, integrated wildlife network.

Despite being separated by the public road network, these human-made borders are largely invisible to the animals and insects that move freely between them.

The Core of the Network

At the heart of this cluster lies Manor Park, which acts as a central "hub". This large area of managed parkland is not open to the general public, providing a sanctuary with significantly less human disturbance than the surrounding sites.

The network is further strengthened by "sympathetic" protective ownership, with six of the eight sites managed primarily for nature conservation.

Habitat Diversity: The Engine of Biodiversity

A key element in any ecological network is habitat diversity: the higher the variety of habitats, the greater the range and abundance of species. Analysis of the six surveyed sites reveals a rich tapestry of environments:

Habitat Type Network Index (Significance) % of Total Survey Species

Neutral Grassland 87 72.2%

Broadleaved Woodland 179 66.3%

Parkland & Scattered Trees 60 66.7%

Wet Grassland 130 65.0%

Water Margin 64 57.9%

Data based on the Sidmouth Nature project surveys.

Key Habitat Highlights

• Grasslands: The cluster is a stronghold for grassland species, particularly neutral and wet grassland plants. The recovery of grasslands at The Knowle and Sidmouth Cemetery highlights the success of active nature recovery.

• Trees and Scrub: While the only true woodland is at the centre of The Knapp, the network is rich in "Parkland and Scattered Trees"—a habitat type even more common here than traditional woodland.

• The "Hub" Influence: Manor Park likely contributes significantly to the parkland and scattered tree habitat, while Highfield Meadow (owned by the Sid Vale Association) preserves vital semi-improved grassland.