Conservation Area

Conservation Area

Conservation Area

Photograph of a thatched cottage in a rural setting
The Conservation Area Character Statement for Combeinteignhead was endorsed by the Planning Committee of Teignbridge District Council on 18 December 2000. The special character of Combeinteignhead Conservation Area is not derived solely from the buildings. Some other features include:

  • Some surviving remnants of historic surfacing illustrate the types of treatments used in the past. Extensive waterworn limestone cobbles survive as pavements fronting the street opposite the Church House and outside the Wild Goose Inn to the south east. It is likely that other parts of the village were treated in a similar way in the past
  • Many farms once existed in the village and while most are no longer in use, the majority are still used as outbuildings and stables. One very prominent field linhay overlooks the village to the south of Lang Barn Farm and buildings are still in agricultural use at Gulmswell and Westborough
  • Specimen trees add considerably to the appearance of certain parts of the village, notably the churchyard
  • Many of the medieval terraced fields are bounded by later hedges, which are extensively overgrown, making this area very sensitive to change. Mature trees are particularly evident higher up the valley sides
  • The old maps show the extent of orchards in the past. Quite a number of trees have survived; their relevance to the cultural history of the village cannot be overstated
  • Of the multitude of gardens shown on the 1880s OS map, many in the conservation area still survive, with a number still retaining their medieval plot boundaries. These are a crucial link with the historic development of the village
  • The stream through the valley is partly culverted, but much of its course is still visible, between breccia walls. The sounds and glimpses of running water contribute much to the village. Near Gulmswell Farm, the stream flows through a large garden for some distance, complementing the rural scene. Flooding has been a problem in recent years but any alleviation works within the village must be designed with the greatest care
  • The deep valley sides create important rural backdrops when viewed from within the conservation area. The impact of developments such as farm buildings or houses must be considered, even if they are some distance from the conservation area
  • The general absence of streetlights is a positive feature which allows excellent views of the night sky. Residents must use discretion when considering garden or security lighting

For further information, please click here: https://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/media/4392/combeinteignhead_appraisal_web_2012.pdf