A call has been made to see the Tour of Britain cycling event return to the streets of Swansea for the first time since 2010.
Craig Lawton, the Welsh Conservative candidate for Swansea West at next year’s Assembly elections has written to Swansea Council asking them to consider bringing Britain’s premier professional cycling event back to the city.
Mr Lawton has already gained backing for the idea from Mohammad Asghar, the Shadow Sports Minister in the Assembly.
Mr Lawton said: “Cycling is one of the fastest growing sports in Britain, both for participants and spectators.
“With Swansea already hosting Premier League football and now having its very own Half Marathon, I think this is the perfect time to bring some of the world’s best cyclists back to Swansea.”
Mr Lawton added “I remember in 2010 the streets were packed with spectators from Swansea as well as from much further afield.
“Since then we have seen three British winners of the Tour de France as well as Wales’ very own Geraint Thomas win Gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
“This is a great opportunity to show Swansea off yet again and for local businesses and tourist attractions to benefits from the increased numbers of visitors.”
The last time the Tour of Britain came to Swansea, in 2010, it saw the riders finish their gruelling 93 mile stage on Swansea’s Constitution Hill. That stage was won by Mark Cavendish’s teammate Michael Albasini.
Since then Olympic gold medallist and Tour de France winner Sir Bradley Wiggins has also taken part in the event including when he won the Tour of Britain in 2013.
Shadow Sports Minister, Mohammad Asghar, has backed Craig’s call for the Tour of Britain to return to Swansea.
“The opportunities that come from cities hosting major sporting events can not be underestimated.
“Hosting the Tour of Britain would be another great shop window for Swansea and the benefits to the local economy are huge if the event is marketed correctly and local businesses and residents are fully consulted.”
Mr Lawton added “I appreciate there is a cost associated with such a venture, however the Swansea Half Marathon is a great example of how funding can be secured for events that really showcase our city.
“I am waiting to hear back from the Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Healthy City, who’s portfolio includes Sport in Swansea, and I hope the Council will look at this as another great opportunity for Swansea and its local businesses.”
