Guildford to Welcome Tour of Britain Cycle Race

Published on: 10 Aug, 2012
Updated on: 20 Aug, 2012

Guildford is set for more cycle racing action as the Tour of Britain comes to town on Sunday, September 16.

More cycle racing is coming to the borough of Guildford. Photo of Team GB racing through Surrey during the Olympic road race. Picture by John Schluter.

On that day the race starts in Reigate and finishes on Guildford’s historic High Street. The race will involve a rolling road closure and also clearways along sections of the route – cars will not be able to park along these areas and any that do will be towed away. The High Street, North Street and Upper High Street will be closed to traffic and a large crowd is anticipated in the town centre, so please consider watching the race elsewhere along the route.

The High Street, North Street and Upper High Street will be closed to all traffic from 4.45am to 7.30pm. Further information on road closures and route maps can be found at www.gosurrey.info/tourofbritain.

The Tour’s final stage covers over 90 miles of Surrey roads including Dorking, Shere, Mayford, West Horsley, Ockley, Cranleigh, Dunsfold, Witley and Bramley. Riders will be passing through Guildford early in the day before returning for the finish on the High Street in the afternoon.

Guildford Borough Council’s lead councillor for leisure and culture, Jen Powell, said: “We have already hosted the Olympic cycling road races and are delighted to welcome the Tour. It’s exciting to think that the winner will be decided on the challenging cobbles of our High Street.

“Following on from our spectacular Olympic success the popularity of cycling events is at an all time high. Large numbers of spectators are expected and we advise people to plan ahead, as there will be disruption in Guildford and the surrounding areas.”

The co-owner of long standing cycle shop Pedal Pushers in Woodbridge Road, Guildford, Doug Staniforth, welcomed the news of the Tour coming to Guildford. He said: “It’s great news for anyone interested in cycling. After the Tour de France, all the drama of the Olympic cycling, and for Guildford to receive the Tour, it completes a great summer. I certainly hope to go and watch.

Surrey County Council is responsible for traffic management during the event, any questions or queries regarding parking and tow away zones should be directed to them on 0300 200 1003.