Dear Editor

I am writing in response to Ian Campbell’s letter (Western Telegraph, October 28th) highlighting his concerns about the activity and promotion of coasteering.

The Pembrokeshire Outdoor Charter Group co-ordinates events and meetings between the activity providers and the conservationists including CCW and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.

At these meetings the sensitive nature of our coastline is discussed and measures are in place to ensure the development of coasteering is sustainable for the environment and wildlife.

Activity centres have agreed to avoid using stretches of coast where there is wildlife sensitive to disturbance. These voluntary agreements between the conservationists and the activity providers are working well. In addition the Outdoor Charter Group has agreed not to develop any new stretches of coast for coasteering without first conducting an environmental impact assessment.

Coasteering mostly takes place in the ‘barnacle zone’ of the rocky shore, which is suitably robust to withstand thunderous seas and violent storms year round. Scientific studies on the impact of coasteering on the rocky shore habitat suggest any impacts are minimal.

More than 100 coasteering guides have attended Outdoor Charter environmental training events this year. One of the two principles of the national parks is to promote the ‘understanding and enjoyment’ of the park by the general public and when delivered well, coasteering does both.

In addition to being a great way to explore the rocky shore and learn about marine life and geology, coasteering provides great exercise and a fun outdoor experience for people from all walks of life.

Tom Luddington
Activities liaison officer,
Pembrokeshire Outdoor Charter Group.