Tour of Britain cycling event brings economic boost to Carmarthenshire

The long-term benefits of Carmarthenshire’s welcome of the Tour of Britain have already started to emerge, with early estimates showing the county pocketed an economic boost of around £800,000 during the weekend of the prestigious event.

That means almost a quarter of the expected economic boost of £4million for south Wales over the course of 12 months has already been achieved.

The independently produced STEAM figures paint a positive picture of the impact the event has had, and will continue to have, on the county’s economy and also the council’s ambition for Carmarthenshire to become the Cycling Hub of Wales.

Live televised coverage and post-race highlights, as well as record social media engagement and national media coverage, shone a spotlight on Carmarthenshire as a world-class visitor destination and host of major sporting events.

Meetings are now taking place to build on the success and bring more elite events to the area in the future.

Leader of the council, Cllr Emlyn Dole, said: “We hope to be feeling the benefits of the Tour of Britain for years to come, and it is so encouraging to hear that it has already put around £800,000 into the pockets of local people and businesses.

“When you consider this was achieved in one 48-hour period, and compare it to the 12-month projection of £4million for the whole of south Wales, we can start to see a clear picture of the positive impact this will have on Carmarthenshire.

“But, as was mentioned in Council, this is more than just a bike ride – this has left a legacy for Carmarthenshire in more ways than one.

“We have proven ourselves as a world-class venue for major events, shown Carmarthenshire’s breath-taking landscape and scenery to millions of people, galvanised community spirit in an unprecedented way, and inspired thousands of people to enjoy an active lifestyle in our great outdoors – it’s difficult to put a measure on that, but we can confidently say that we have achieved something special.”

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Tagged Carmarthenshire Council, Cllr Emlyn Dole, cycling, economy, OVO Energy Tour of Britain, Tour of Britain, tourism

Written by Robert Lloyd

http://www.rlloydpr.co.uk