South Lakeland set for economic boost during Tour of Britain

The upcoming Tour of Britain cycling race could bring a significant boost to the economy of South Lakeland, according to one local MP.

The area was badly flooded by the deluge at the end of last year, but Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron has welcomed the announcement that the tour’s second leg will run from Carlisle through Kendal.

According to ITV News, Mr Farron said: “This is exciting news for South Lakeland, which will provide a boost to the local tourist industry and showcase the beauty of our area to an audience from across the globe. It will be a fantastic opportunity for the area and will create a real buzz.

“Following the devastating floods which have hit our area, and others in Cumbria, this is a great opportunity to show that we are open for business.”

He added: “My thanks go to all those who have worked to bring the Tour of Britain to South Lakeland.”

In September 2013, when the tour last came to South lakeland, the race is believed to have ploughed around £4.1m into the local economy, with around 15k fans lining the streets of Kendal to watch the event.

The news follows an announcement earlier this week that part of Cheshire will host the third leg of the tour.

Cheshire East’s newly elected leader, Cllr Rachel Bailey, said: “We feel truly privileged to be hosting this wonderful spectacle in the borough and delighted that the tour [has] selected Cheshire East to host this third stage of what is a captivating sporting event.”

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