Tour de Yorkshire 2020 could bring 'significant' benefits to region with local support

North Yorkshire has been asked to commit to the Tour de Yorkshire cycle race until 2020.

The County Council’s executive will hear of the considerable ‘benefits’ the race brings to North Yorkshire before making its decision on future funding on December 4.

Hosting the race provides crucial national and international exposure for North Yorkshire and the wider region, with TV coverage in 190 countries.

An independent study estimated that this year’s race boosted the Yorkshire economy by £98m.

A record 2.6m spectators lined the route over the four days of racing and overall spending was up 54 per cent.

It’s seen as an opportunity to showcase the county as a spectacular destination for businesses and visitors and a stunning location to work, live and study.

County Council leader, Councillor Carl Les, said: “We know that bringing international cycling events to North Yorkshire boosts our visitor economy and our businesses, bringing benefits that last long beyond the four days of racing.

“Our support for such events since the Tour de France Grand Départ in 2014 has been instrumental in bringing the UCI World Cycling Championships - the World Cup of cycle racing - to the county next September.

“The Tour de Yorkshire also generates a great sense of pride. People across the county decorate their towns and villages with painted bikes, flags, bunting and amazing land art.

“They hold celebrations and line the streets in their thousands to support the race. Many communities love to make an event of the event.

“We have five years [of] experience of managing roads and traffic during cycling events, so are well-placed to ensure the safety of spectators and minimise disruption.”

The Executive will be recommended to authorise funding of £190k to support next year’s event and a further £190k for 2020’s event. This would cover the hosting fee and event costs.

Next year’s Tour de Yorkshire is scheduled to take place from Thursday, May 2 to Sunday, May 5. Bedale, Selby and Scarborough have been announced as either a start or finish location. Full details of the route will be announced on December 7.

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