The Byes

The Byes Riverside Park is one of Sidmouth's most important green spaces. It is a parkland area within the town, running alongside the River Sid. It spans approximately two kilometres between Sidford and the Old Toll House. For the purposes of the Sidmouth Nature project surveys it has been split into two parts; The Byes and Upper Byes. The division occurs at the bridge near Margaret’s Meadow.The Byes is managed for wildlife conservation and to provide free public access for residents and visitors. Parts of The Byes are owned by the Sid Vale Association (SVA) and are managed to promote wild flower diversity. East Devon District Council also plays a role in managing aspects of The Byes.While initially one might not classify it as such, on balance, The Byes has been designated as a brownfield site. This classification reflects its complex history of land use, including areas of mown lawn. Many of the mature trees in the lower area are introduced species and there are a number of non-native flowers. Primary habitat types present include freshwater habitat (the River Sid running its entire length), grassland (large areas amenity grass and parkland woodland) and hedgerow scrub lining the borders.The Byes has significant value as a diverse urban green space and a key component in local biodiversity networks, supporting a range of species despite facing challenges like invasive species and the impact of structures like the weir.