The world’s premier cycling event is less than six months away from winding its way through Greater Manchester.
The Tour de France will pass through Rochdale roads for about a kilometre on July 6 and thousands of spectators are expected to line the streets, cheering on their cycling heroes.
Rochdale Council is expecting a huge influx of tourists excited to get a glimpse of their favourite athletes at the first stage of the 2014 Tour de France.
Council Leader Colin Lambert, said: “We are expecting thousands to line the route by Blackstone Edge and for local businesses it’s a great opportunity.
“Littleborough will become one of the main gateways into the event and the volume of spectators will create a huge opportunity for businesses and attractions following the race.
“It is important we capitalise on this and ensure race-goers are aware of what’s on and encouraged to stay, and also return in the future.”
Rochdale Borough Council are currently finalising a series of events building up to the starting pistol which include a Triathlon Challenge, a two day Littleborough Festival and various cycling inspired challenges.
John Kay, Chairman of the forum, said: “The Tour de France really is a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“It’s the world’s largest annual sports event, it’s entirely free for spectators and it’s on our doorstep! We hope that as many people as possible, local residents as well as visitors and businesses, really enjoy the Tour de France … and it is our intention to do all we can to make that the case.”
Fans from all over the world will visit Rochdale where the cyclists will pass through a section of B6138 and the A58 adjacent to Blackstone Edge Reservoir – which is the finish to one of the longest continuous hill climbs in the country.
It is expected that spectators will get more than an hour of viewing pleasure as the racing cyclists, support teams and media teams pass through the town.
Also cycling through the streets will be two former British winners of the event in Chris Froome and Sir Bradley Wiggins.
As well as British sprint- cycling legend, Mark Cavendish, who has already stated his intent to win the race on his home turf.
The council have carried out pre-winter road surface checks to ensure any issues that may affect the cyclists have been sorted.
Mark Widdup, Director of Economy and Environment at the council said: “We have experience of managing large scale events and will be making sure everything goes smoothly.
“Everything from traffic and travel plans to litter collection is being organised, working closely with our partners, local businesses, groups that have a stake in the Pennines and the emergency services.
“It is one of the most interesting sections of the route and will be a popular place to view the race. There are only limited access points to the route from the western half of Britain.”
Image courtesy of Hada55, with thanks
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