Work on power lines at Seaton Wetlands will cause disturbance

Visitors to East Devon District Council’s Seaton Wetlands nature reserve are being warned to expect some major disruption to normal site visiting in July, as Western Power Distribution are due begin work there on Monday 2 July to move overhead power lines underground. The work is expected to be completed by Thursday 26 July.

During the first two weeks (Monday 2 July to Friday 13 July) the car park and paths to the Tower Hide and Stafford Marsh will be closed from Monday to Friday. So the Countryside team is recommending that visitors explore nearby Seaton Marshes, which is accessed off the cycle path from Harbour Road car park in Seaton.

However, the site can be accessed on weekends and the Discovery Hut will be open from 10am to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Visitors should be aware though that due to the works taking place, the wildlife spectacle is unlikely to be its usual high standard.

There will be complete site closure on Thursday 26 July.

The following planned events will unfortunately be cancelled:

Bird ringing demonstration. Friday 6 July
What’s that bird? Saturday 7 July
What’s that bird? Thursday 26 July

Cllr Tom Wright, East Devon’s environment portfolio holder, said: “The removal of the overhead wires will be a huge boost for wildlife including ground-nesting birds, water birds and other wildlife. The work is being undertaken after the nesting period but before the autumn migration in an attempt to keep wildlife disruption to a minimum. We apologise for the disturbance caused, but are looking forward to this work bring completed. The removal of power lines will not only be better for the birds it will also enhance the visitor experience.’’

Anyone who would like further information or has questions is asked to contact Countryside Team Leader, James Chubb: 07964 132282.

The Countryside team can be contacted via email: countryside@eastdevon.gov.uk or phone: 01395 517557.