National Trust workshop to help outdoor activity providers conserve environment

A licensing system is already run by the National Trust to protect sites - such as Dancing Ledge - from overuse.

Activities such as climbing, coasteering and kayaking have grown in popularity along the Jurassic Coast in recent years.

The National Trust joined forces with the Institute of Outdoor Learning and the charity Birds of Poole Harbour to organise the workshop for companies which provide activities on land they look after in Purbeck.

Purbeck National Trust ecologist David Brown, event organiser, said: "The workshop was a brilliantly positive event, with all participants showing genuine desire for recreation in Purbeck to be something that celebrates and helps conserve our special places rather than pushing them to their limits.

"One outcome is that we will begin working with the companies to ensure that new leaders are taught more clearly about the habitats they are operating in."

The National Trust says it exists to protect special places and make them accessible for everyone to enjoy – a dual role that can make for a "delicate balancing act" in fragile natural environments.

"While we are delighted more and more of us are enjoying the Purbeck countryside," said a National Trust spokesman, "we increasingly find ourselves working with partners to make sure the balance is maintained."

David added: "The natural environment is Purbeck’s greatest asset, but keeping it special is paramount.

"It is only by finding common ground and working in partnership with the groups who bring people here that we can do this."

Issues ranging from the impact dog walking can have on ground nesting birds to the damage mass off-road cycling events can cause all have to be addressed, says the Trust.