‘EYE Bridge could become a victim of its own success’.

That’s what National Trust fears the future could bring for the popular beauty spot near Wimborne.

The trust recently shared concerns that Eye Bridge was ‘suffering due to more extreme weather events as a result of climate change’.

Now, it adds that high visitor numbers are also posing a problem.

A spokesperson for National Trust said: “For 40 years the National Trust has cared for Eye Bridge and welcomed many people to enjoy the peace and quiet of this riverside location.

"However, increasingly the site is coming under pressure from over visiting. There are issues with the number of cars impacting on the habitat and blocking local roads. In addition, anti-social behaviour, litter, illegal barbecues and dog waste add to the problem.”

As reported, National Trust has launched a survey for visitors to discover how Eye Bridge is being used.

Feedback received will be used to develop plans for the site’s future management and conservation.

The trust has also switched up its parking arrangements for visitors to Eye Bridge in order to avoid polluting the River Stour.

Its spokesperson said: “There is a small car park at Eye Bridge, with space for 10 cars. In previous years we have opened an adjacent field as an overflow car park, but this year weather conditions and increased frequency of the river flooding has meant the overflow car park is unusable.

"Due to the river location and the car park being in the floodplain we are unable to carry out any ground work as material put down would eventually be washed away by heavy rain and future floods, causing pollution to the river.”

As a result, visitors are now being offered car parking in another neighbouring field, but this will only be temporary due to planning rules.

Summarising the efforts to preserve Eye Bridge, Eleanor Egan, countryside manager at Kingston Lacy, said: ‘We’re committed to conserving and caring for this place forever and for everyone.

"But if we do not act now Eye Bridge could become a victim of their own success – more and more people are choosing to visit which is terrific, but we still need to ensure nature is given a place to thrive and the site protected from over-use and pollution, whilst at the same time making Eye Bridge fit for the future and for future generations."