Part 2: Protected Sand Dune Access Route

Questions 11–14

Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.

11 The access route was changed mainly to
A protect plants
B shorten the walk
C create new parking

12 The boardwalk is made from
A metal
B recycled plastic
C untreated wood

13 Visitors must not
A bring dogs
B leave the marked path
C take water bottles

14 The speaker advises walkers to
A start early
B go in pairs
C wear gloves

Questions 15–20

What information does the speaker give about each point on the route?

Choose SIX answers from the box and write the correct letter, A–H, next to Questions 15–20.

Information
A Staff member present
B One way system
C Closed after rain
D New signage installed
E Suitable for wheelchairs
F No access today
G Viewing platform
H Keep noise low

Points

15 Entrance Gate ____________________
16 Boardwalk Start ____________________
17 Orchid Area ____________________
18 Wind Shelter ____________________
19 Lookout Deck ____________________
20 Exit Path ____________________

Keys

11 A
12 B
13 B
14 A
15 D
16 E
17 H
18 C
19 G
20 B

Transcript

Part 2: You will hear a talk about a public facility.

Welcome to the protected sand dunes. Before you begin your walk, I’d like to explain why the access route has been changed and how you can help us protect this fragile environment. Over the past few years, many plants were damaged because visitors took shortcuts across the dunes. As a result, the new route now keeps walkers away from the youngest dunes, where the roots are still developing and can easily be destroyed by even a single footprint.

You’ll notice the boardwalk near the start of the route. It is made from recycled plastic, which lasts longer in salty air and does not splinter like untreated wood. This material also requires less maintenance, meaning fewer repairs and less disturbance to the surrounding wildlife. Please keep to the marked route at all times. Visitors must not leave the path, even for a quick photo, because one footprint can crush new growth and slow the recovery of the dunes.

Here are a few practical tips before you begin. I recommend starting early, as the wind becomes stronger in the afternoon and sand can blow into your eyes, making the walk uncomfortable. It can also become much hotter later in the day, as there is very little shade along the route. Carry water, wear sun protection, and take short breaks if needed. The walk is not difficult, but it is exposed, so preparation is important.

Now I’ll describe the key points on the route in the order you will reach them. At the Entrance Gate, you will see new signage with a clear map and safety reminders. Please take a moment to read it before you begin, as it explains how to stay on the correct path and avoid restricted areas.

At the Boardwalk Start, the surface is wide and smooth, which makes it suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. This section was designed to improve access for all visitors.

Next, you will reach the Orchid Area. This section is extremely sensitive. Some plants are low to the ground and easy to damage. Please also keep noise low, because birds nest nearby and loud voices disturb them.

Further on, you’ll come to the Wind Shelter. This spot is useful on sunny days, but it can be closed after rain, as the ground becomes slippery and muddy. If it is closed, please follow the diversion signs.

After that comes the Lookout Deck, a raised viewing platform with a wide view of the dunes and the sea. Please do not climb on the railings.

Finally, you will reach the Exit Path, which is a one-way route. Please do not turn back along it, as it is narrow and we want to avoid congestion.

Thank you for your cooperation, and enjoy your walk.