Wales eyes Tour de France Grand Depart

Ahead of the Welsh National Assembly elections this in May, Welsh Liberal Democrats have made bringing the Tour de France Grand Depart to Wales an election pledge, according to Wales Online, via Road.cc.

South East Wales Lib Dem Assembly Member Veronica German said bringing the opening to the world’s most famous cycle race would bring £115m to the Welsh economy.

German said: “From Snowdonia to the Brecon Beacons, Wales could provide a spectacular and challenging stage for the world’s top athletes. The likes of Nicole Cooke and Geraint Thomas have shown that the Welsh are no slouches in the saddle. The Welsh Government needs to change up a gear and bring the Tour to Wales.

“After the success of the Ryder Cup, the Tour de France will give Wales another opportunity to shine on the world stage. It is watched by millions across Europe and estimates suggest the Welsh economy could benefit by up to £115m. The mayor of London successfully brought the Tour to England in 2007. With the right leadership and vision, Wales could do likewise.”

As Road.cc notes, the Welsh Liberal Democrats make up a small proportion of the Welsh Assembly, holding six seats in 60, so the chance for the Party to put the pledge into action is likely to be slim.

It’s not the first time the Lib Dems have talked the talk for cycling, telling BikeBiz ahead of the General Election that they would introduce cycle measures that would benefit bike dealers.

The Tour de France Grand Depart is also a target for Scotland. Event Scotland is putting in a bid for the 2017 competition, according to reports.