A series of drop-in sessions are being organised by the Isle of Wight Council so residents can find out more about the forthcoming Tour of Britain cycle race.

The Tour of Britain culminates on the Island on September 11 when around 100 of the world’s best cyclists will take on the 150-kilometre last leg of the series in what is believed to be the largest sporting event ever hosted by the Island.

The event will be broadcast live around the world giving the Island a global profile and residents a grandstand view of a top-class professional sporting event.

However the race will inevitably have an impact on the highway network including a rolling road closure of between 30 minutes and an hour so riders can pass safely.

Longer closures will be necessary at the start on Ryde Seafront and along the finishing stretch – the Military Road at Chale to The Needles.

 

Isle of Wight County Press:

Residents will also be required to remove their vehicle from the road if they live along the route. This will need to be done from 6pm the previous night (Saturday, September 10) until the race passes the following day.

A full list of the affected roads – along with details of arrangements in areas where alternative parking has been made available – will be publicised soon.

The drop-in sessions, to be held in Ryde, Freshwater, Newport and Cowes, will be an opportunity for residents to discuss with organisers any issues they may have or indeed find out how they can get involved in - or best spectate - the race. Representatives from the IW Council’s sports unit and highways teams and Visit Isle of Wight will be among those present to provide information.

Alex Minns, Isle of Wight Council Assistant Director of Neighbourhoods, said: “The Tour of Britain will be a fabulous event for the Island, its economy and in terms of hosting an event that can inspire people to take up a healthy pursuit.

“We are really keen that everyone has the information they need to make the most of the event and to ensure they can play their part in making sure it is a resounding success. The drop-in sessions will be one chance to do that and we look forward to seeing residents at these events.”

The drop in sessions will be held at the following locations and times.

Tuesday 23 August - Ryde

Ryde Castle

Drop-in 3pm to 6pm

Wednesday 24 August - Freshwater

West Wight Sports Centre – Community Centre

Drop-in 3pm to 6pm

Thursday 25 August - Newport

Riverside Centre - Little London Room

Drop-in 3pm to 6pm

Wednesday 31 August – Cowes

Northwood House - Drawing Room

Drop-in 3.30pm to 6pm.