Because of its special geological significance and unspoilt character, the beach at Budleigh Salterton lies within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site (unlike the beaches of the other 'gateway towns' such as Sidmouth and Exmouth which are excluded).

Because of its special geological significance and unspoilt character, the beach at Budleigh Salterton lies within the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site (unlike the beaches of the other 'gateway towns' such as Sidmouth and Exmouth which are excluded). This fact is not as well known as it should be.The beach and surrounding area is supposed to have the protection in the natural environment equivalent to a one star listed building in the built environment. The statutory advisory body in this case is Natural England.East Devon District Council was quite wrong to have carried out the grossly invasive work at Steamer Steps without having consulted them. There is clearly an alternative to venting storm water through iron pipes cut into the cliff face and that is to divert it, along with all the other storm water, into the main sewer.One wonders whether EDDC is fit to be custodian for our only mainland natural World Heritage Site.David Daniel,7 Marine Parade, Budleigh Salterton.