National Character Areas: Suffolk Coast and Heaths

Geographically, this Character Area is situated along the North Sea, stretching inland to between 5 and 18km. This magnificent coastline consisted mainly of coastal and lowland heath which contain plants that display adaptations for survival. The adaptations include long narrow leaf-shapes to reduce water loss (transpiration) and woody stems as these characteristics allow the plants to tolerate wind exposure, low rainfall and other harsh conditions. This vegetation type is valuable for biodiversity. There are also large forested areas dotted throughout, with an abundance of conifers

The landscape has been shaped over centuries by natural processes, flora, fauna and people. Almost half of this land mass has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) or National Landscape. In recent years, farming has overtaken all land uses, covering over 50% of the area. Other evidence of human activity includes archaeological artefacts, development of country estate, historic parklands, ports, docklands and military sites following WWI and WWII. This reflects the rich heritage of the area. Distinctive historic landscapes are such a pleasure to visit and there is much to see from Orford Ness, Dunwich and Minsmere to castles such as Framlingham Castle, Leiston Abbey, Woodbridge Tide Mill and homesteads such as Glemham Hall, Helmingham Hall and Otley Hall.

Settlements are evidenced in small villages and market towns, with a few larger towns on the fringes but it remains relatively undeveloped comparatively to other counties. This contributes to an experience of high-quality lifestyles with an abundance of recreational activities.

Riverine and riparian zones consist of mudflats and salt marshes, much of which is designated as nature reserve to protect these river corridors as they are important ecologically and also for human health and wellbeing. These rivers lead to the East Anglian coastline, with its shingle beaches and sandy dunes.

All of these landscapes are valuable for people and wildlife and need to be managed as best as possible to ensure they are adequately managed and maintained for longevity.

Natural England has published Detailed Statements of Environmental Opportunity as follows:

1. Manage the nationally significant coastal landscapes, minimise environmental and visual impacts and improve education on coastal change.

2. Manage productive agricultural landscapes to benefit food production, biodiversity and soil and water quality.

3. Increase public awareness of historic landscapes and protect habitats and wildlife.

4. Manage forest plantations to ensure a range of rare and endangered habitats and wildlife may also be supported.

5. Enhance existing settlements ensuring high quality green infrastructure.

   
   

   How much do you value the amenity that the landscape in your area has to offer?

   
   

   Reference: Natural England: Natural Character Area 82.

   https://nationalcharacterareas.co.uk/Suffolk-Coast-and-Heaths/

Aldeburgh Shingle Coast

Suffolk Heaths