Public opinion has come down firmly against recreational offroading. In a 2004 ICM opinion poll:
- 94% per cent of people thought it was important to preserve and protect the countryside.
- 87% said that recreational offroading should be banned in national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty to preserve the peace and tranquility of the countryside.
- 79% said that 4x4s and trail bikes using rights of way in the countryside meant increased danger for walkers, cyclists and horse riders and that these vehicles were damaging the environment by introducing noise and pollution and damaging habitats.
- 69% said that meeting vehicles would spoil their enjoyment of a country walk.