THREE local authorities have joined forces to protect the Devon coast and countryside.

Teignbridge, East Devon District Councils and Exeter City Council have form a cross-boundary partnership to safeguard three internationally important conservation sites.

The three councils have established the South East Devon Habitat Regulations Executive Committe to off-set the effects of new developments and population growth on the protected sites.

They will work together to protect places such as the Exe Estuary, Dawlish Warren and the East Devon Pebblebed Heaths for future generations to enjoy.

The committee said protecting the sites was important for a number of reasons, including providing safe areas for all users to enjoy and caring for the bird populations they support.

Human activity on or close to the sites can cause disturbance or even death of protected bird species, it warned.

This new Committee is working with partners including Natural England, Clinton Devon Estates, National Trust, RSPB, Exe Estuary Management Partnership and Devon Wildlife Trust.

Funding will come from developer contributions on new residential housing across the three areas and within a 10km "zone of influence" from the protected sites.

Measures and initiatives planned include a patrol boat on the Exe Estuary, a dog project officer, a review of codes of conduct, new and updated visitor publicity and signage.

Two new wardens will educate and engage with the public and ensure byelaws are observed.

East Devon's deputy leader Andrew Moulding said: "This joint working between our three Councils is a really important step in protecting our beautiful coast and countryside.

"By working together through collective financial decision-making, we can share resources to protect important areas of conservation and improve enjoyment for residents and visitors alike."

Humphrey Clemens, Teignbridge District Council's executive member for planning and housing said alternative green space would ease the pressure on the protected sites.

Rachel Sutton, Exeter City Council's lead councillor for city development, said: "This collaboration between local authorities will benefit all our respective communities.

"Having access to these attractive areas for recreation and leisure for city residents and visitors alike, is a priority. However, we need to do this in a managed way."

A business plan and five-year delivery programme was agreed to protect the sites at a meeting of the joint executive committee on 29 June.

Measures include a review of zones in the Exe Estuary and at Warren Point to make them safer and protect wildlife, and implementing zones for particular access.

A comprehensive consultation with communities regarding zones is being planned, as is funding towards a new visitor centre for Dawlish Warren.