More people are now taking part in sponsored events, challenge competitions and other similar activities in the countryside, increasing the demand for appropriate sites.
There are many beneficial impacts of challenge events such as the potential to raise knowledge and awareness of countryside, contact with young, active people and urban communities as well as contributing to the local economy.
However, challenge events can also put pressure on the people who live and work in rural communities as well as the countryside itself.
Typically the greatest demand is for sites in National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) which, while offering attractive and challenging terrain, can include sensitive landscapes and habitats that are often already heavily visited.
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