In a concerted effort to leverage the upcoming 2027 Tour de France Grand Départs, a coalition of cycling leaders and local authority representatives has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to secure a £30 million government investment. This funding aims to establish safe and accessible cycling facilities across Britain, ensuring a lasting legacy from the event.
The open letter, endorsed by British Cycling, Grand Départ GB 2027, Scottish Cycling, Beicio Cymru, and representatives from key start and finish locations for the 2027 Grand Départs, emphasizes that targeted capital investment in cycling infrastructure will enhance public health, reduce inequalities, and foster stronger, more connected communities.
As Britain prepares to host both the men’s and women’s Grand Départs in 2027—the first time both events will be held outside France—over 10 million spectators are anticipated to line the route, marking it as the largest free-to-watch live sporting event ever staged in the UK. (uksport.gov.uk)
Lee Gibbons, Interim Group Chief Executive of British Cycling, highlighted the unique opportunity presented by the 2027 Grand Départs:
“The Tour de France Grand Départs in 2027 represent a once-in-a-generation opportunity to inspire millions of people and showcase Britain to the world. We want to ensure the legacy extends far beyond the race itself. Investment in safe and accessible places to ride would help more people enjoy the physical, mental, and social benefits of cycling while creating healthier and more connected communities.”
In addition to the sporting spectacle, organizers are implementing a comprehensive social impact program, including the recruitment of over 9,000 volunteer “JOY Makers,” a schools engagement initiative, support for young people through a “Readiness to Work” program, and efforts to encourage more girls to become active through cycling. (cyclingweekly.com)
The signatories argue that now is the moment to build on this momentum by investing in communities where demand for cycling opportunities is high, but provision remains limited. The proposed £30 million investment would support the development of safe and accessible cycling facilities, helping people improve their health, build confidence on a bike, connect with others in their communities, and access an affordable form of transport. It would also accelerate plans to ensure the benefits of the Tour de France Grand Départs are felt long after the race has left British roads.
This call builds on the success of the original Places to Ride program. Backed by £15 million of government funding between 2019 and 2024, the program supported more than 150 projects across England, generating almost £268 million in social value and an estimated £32.9 million in NHS savings. (gov.uk)
In Scotland, investment linked to the legacy of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships has already supported 50 facilities, generating more than £48 million in social value and unlocking significant additional investment. (transport.gov.scot)
Signatories believe that a new program would create a visible and meaningful legacy from the 2027 Grand Départs, particularly in communities that continue to face barriers to participation and active travel. They also believe government backing could unlock significant match funding from local authorities and partners, accelerating delivery and maximizing impact.
Highlights:
- ‘A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’ – Tour de France calls for 9,000 volunteers for UK Grand Départ in 2027, Published on Wednesday, May 27