Council chiefs say Tour of Britain’s visit to Derbyshire will ‘boost businesses’

Some of the world’s top cyclists will be heading to the area for stage six of the premier road cycling event on Friday September 11.

Starting in Stoke-on-Trent and finishing in Nottingham, the 189-kilometre leg is widely tipped to be the toughest of the eight-stage tour and will pass through Buxton, Whaley Bridge, Bakewell, Chatsworth, Matlock, Carsington and Belper, although the exact route has yet to be confirmed.

Derbyshire County Council’s Deputy Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Infrastructure, Councillor John Owen, said: “We’re really pleased to welcome the Tour of Britain to Derbyshire with the route showing off our scenic countryside.

“The tour will bring a boost to local businesses with visitors staying over in the county to make the most of our food and drink and tourist attractions.

“We recently hosted the Tour de France and are hosting L’EROICA for the second time this year and we are keen to not waste this opportunity to build on the county’s rich cycling heritage.

“Events like this really showcase what a great county Derbyshire is and we’re working hard behind the scenes to make sure we host other premium cycling events.”

Further stage details will be announced in the summer, along with details of the 20 competing teams.