A proposal has been set out to bring an elite professional cycling event to Clacton later this Spring.
Tendring District Council (TDC) is considering plans to host a round of the Tour Series within the town centre in May.
The Tour Series is an evening event which sees pro cycling teams take on a ‘criterium’, racing on closed circuit laps around town and city centres. There is both a men’s and women’s event, with fun for all the family during the day building up to the racing action.
A recommendation to host the Tour Series, and put £80,000 towards staging the event, will go before Cabinet on Friday (25 March) as part of the Corporate Investment Panel work.
Alex Porter, TDC Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism, said he would be recommending the event to his colleagues for approval.
“Tendring District Council has a long history of hosting elite cycle events, and the Tour Series is fantastic for both spectators and local businesses,” Councillor Porter said.
“The compact format means spectators can see the action unfold before them each lap, across both the women’s and men’s races, while town centre businesses will benefit from crowds well into the evening.
“This is such a great opportunity to showcase Clacton and we’re hoping businesses will really gear up with window displays and offers to welcome visitors – and draw them back for future visits – hence why I am recommending this to my Cabinet colleagues for approval.”
If approved by Cabinet the council will write to town centre businesses with further information on how they can get involved in the event.
TDC has previously hosted elite cycle event stages, including three stages of the Women’s Tour (including the inaugural tour) and the Tour of Britain.
For the latest Council news visit www.tendringdc.gov.uk