Knapp Copse Local Nature Reserve going in the right direction

Posted on: 22 November 2018New signs, interpretation maps and way-marking posts have been installed at Knapp Copse Local Nature Reserve.The reserve, which is located between Sidmouth and Honiton, has had a revamp with new interpretation maps and improved way marking to help visitors navigate around the site.The work was paid for through the Devon County Council's locality budget, with additional funding from Lower Knapp Farm, owned by Holiday Property Bond.The interpretation maps were designed by East Devon District Council's Countryside Team and the new waymark posts made by Wild Works.This improved signage makes exploring the site far easier, highlighting the 1.5-mile circular walk and promoting links to the wider landscape, notably via the popular East Devon Way.Knapp Copse LNR is owned by Devon County Council with maintenance contracted to East Devon District Council's Countryside Team.This project is part of a larger programme of interpretation improvements being rolled out across the ten other EDDC managed nature reserves, including Exmouth Local Nature Reserve and Seaton Wetlands.Councillor Roger Croad, Devon County Council’s Community, Public Health, Transportation and Environmental Services said: “Increasing numbers of people are taking advantage of the many walking routes in and around the nature reserve which take in woodland, meadows and some of the finest views in Devon. “The physical and mental health benefits of the nature reserve are obvious and these new signs will enhance the experience for all visitors.”Councillor Tom Wright, East Devon District Council’s Portfolio Holder for the Environment said: “This is a great example of councils working together to proved excellent opportunities for our residents to get out into our outstanding environment with all the health and wellbeing benefits. The reserve fits very well into East Devon's provision of such facilities.”Councillor Claire Wright, Devon County Council's local member for Ottery St. Mary Rural, said: "Walking is one of the easiest ways to get more active, lose weight and become healthier. There are a number of attractive walking routes through and around the nature reserve, including the East Devon Way and these new signs will make these routes more accessible to more people."