going ahead with planned projects.

The National Trust is being approached by more and more developers seeking to overcome objections and install environment-friendly ideas in their schemes, according to the group.

"More and more we are finding that developers or architects, particularly on large projects, will come to us to get our reaction prior to submitting a planning application,'' said Tim Marshall, chairman of the Trust's environment committee.

Recently the Grotto Bay Hotel altered its plans for more rooms to avoid destroying an historical stand of Olivewood trees.

Pearman Watlington also made adjustments to its plans for the waterfront area on Pitts Bay Road after hearing of the Trust's concerns.

Mr. Marshall added: "Often we are finding that developers will take on board what we have to say.

"They obviously do not want to go through the process of objections so if they know in advance they have consulted us and got our input there is a chance that we will not object or the objection will be defined.'' Mr. Marshall said he also believed there was a greater level of environmental consciousness among developers.