Paintball games, which take place in woods, are currently banned on National Trust land (Coast and Countryside Subject Paper, 1990), because of anticipated conflicts with other recreational use. The activity can also cause damage to woodland.

National Trust staff may occasionally wish to accommodate this activity. Providing the site is of low conservation value and otherwise appropriate, there is no reason to impose a blanket ban. However, the small number of Trust woods which match this definition will significantly limit the opportunities for paintball games on Trust land.

Guiding principles
Paintball games are only acceptable in woods of low conservation value, on an occasional basis, subject to strict controls.

Good practice
Ensure the wood is large enough to allow good dispersal of players, at least 30 hectares (75 acres).

Management controls include: limits on numbers participating, seasonal restrictions, zoning (including the marking of 'no go' areas), restrictions on the erection of structures, digging and cutting back of vegetation.

Monitoring suggestions
General surveillance, eg on condition of site before and after, including after an adequate recovery period, would be useful to add to existing information on the effects of the sport.

Trends

Approximately 1 million participants in the UK.

Possible impacts

• Conflict with other recreational activities.
• Trampling damage to woodland ground flora (eradication in severe cases).
• Soil disturbance and compaction from trenching, trampling etc.
• Disturbance to birds and mammals.
• Note: Effect of paint stains on tree bark epiphytes not known.

Contacts and liaison

European Paintball Sports Federation
130 Churchfield,
Harlow,
Essex
CM20 3DE

Tel: 01279 412365

This organisation represents players, traders, manufacturers and site operators and covers all aspects of the sport.

Legislation, codes and agreements
Planning permission is needed for permanent use (more than 28 days).

References
Anderson, P. and Radford, E. (1992). A Review of the Effect of Recreation on Woodland Soils, Vegetation and Fauna. English Nature, Peterborough.

English Nature and European Paintball Federation (1993). Paintball Games in Woodlands. A guide to good environmental practice. English Nature, Peterborough.