West Hill

Executive Summary

West Hill, the popular name for the grassy slopes of Peak Hill in Sidmouth, represents a significant and fragile ecological zone characterized primarily by coastal grassland. While widely recognized as a premier vantage point for the Jurassic Coast, the site is a complex maritime ecotone supported by a unique geological foundation of Upper Greensand. Recent surveys highlight a rich biodiversity, including specialised salt-tolerant plants (halophytes) and a variety of invertebrates. However, the ecosystem currently faces pressure from management practices. Local conservationists have identified flaws in the current maintenance regime, including poorly timed mowing and the spread of invasive species, which threaten both the local flora—specifically the cherished daffodils—and the area's overall biodiversity.

Geographical and Geological Context

West Hill is defined as the western slopes of Sidmouth, rising from Jacob’s Ladder toward the former residence of author R.F. Delderfield. For ecological and survey purposes, it is distinguished from the summit of Peak Hill as a separate environmental zone.

T

he physical characteristics of the site are dictated by its foundation geology:

• Substrate: The area is composed of Upper Greensand formations.

• Soil Conditions: This geology creates a well-drained, alkaline-leaning substrate.

• Habitat Influence: While the broader Peak Hill area supports woodland and scrub, the exposed nature of West Hill’s slopes facilitates the development of species-rich coastal grassland.

Habitat Classification and Characteristics

The primary habitat is coastal grassland, which transitions into a maritime ecotone at the base of the hill where the land meets the sea.

The Maritime Ecotone

This zone is characterised by high salt spray and harsh winds. Plant life here consists of halophytes—specialised species that have adapted to survive in environments that would normally dehydrate standard vegetation.

Species Characteristics & Adaptations

Rock Samphire (Crithmum maritimum) A hardy "edible potherb" that roots directly into cliff faces and sea defences.

Thrift / Sea Pink (Armeria maritima) Grows in dense, cushion-like clusters to minimise exposure to salt winds and stabilise loose substrate.

Sea Campion (Silene uniflora) Forms low-lying carpets on shingle to conserve moisture.

Danish Scurvy-grass (Cochlearia danica) A small plant believed to have been introduced to the area by seeds on sailors' boots.

Grassland Flora

The wider area supports over 50 species of wildflowers. Notable seasonal changes include:

• Autumn: The landscape transforms into a "tapestry" of blooming heather and gorse.

• Spring: The slopes are known for daffodils, though these are an introduced species currently facing environmental stress.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

The biodiversity of West Hill extends beyond flora to include various mammals and invertebrates that depend on the maintained grassland.

• Mammals:

  • Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus): Recorded as "rare" on the site (index 1 out of 7).

  • Common Rabbits: Play a critical ecological role; their grazing maintains a short-sward grassland, which is essential for low-growing wildflowers to thrive.

• Invertebrates: The flowery banks at the base of the hill serve as a haven for various species, particularly in summer, including:

  • Rose Chafer (Cetonia aurata)

  • Six-spot Burnet Moth

  • Gatekeeper Butterfly

  • Small Copper Butterfly

Conservation and Management Analysis

West Hill is currently managed by the East Devon District Council (EDDC). It is a site of local contention, as conservation volunteers and the local Biodiversity Group have raised concerns regarding the efficacy of the current management regime.

Identified Management Flaws

The following practices have been cited as detrimental to the site's ecological health:

• Inconsistent Mowing: Large areas of grass are reportedly left entirely uncut.

• Poor Timing: Cutting schedules often conflict with the natural life cycles of local flora.

• Invasive Species: Current maintenance has led to the accidental scattering of seeds from invasive species, most notably Alexanders.

Impacts and Remediation

These management issues have specifically harmed the local daffodil populations and reduced the area's utility as a wildlife haven. Consequently, town councillors and the Sidmouth Biodiversity Group are currently engaged in efforts to coordinate with the EDDC to implement a more scientifically sound management strategy for this natural asset.