Chance for Tour of Britain to come to Lincolnshire labelled 'absolutely fantastic'
A possibility for Lincolnshire to host a leg of the 2026 Tour of Britain has been welcomed by some leaders – although not everyone is convinced.
The county has been offered the chance to host the initial stage of the men’s race on Wednesday, September 2, although no final decision has been made.
Organisation and hosting fee would cost Lincolnshire County Council up to £450,000, with officers saying it would draw thousands of visitors to the area.
However, questions were raised over whether it would actually be value for money at the council’s Culture committee on Friday (June 5).
The route would start and end in Lincoln, likely using the castle and Cathedral area in a similar way to the city’s annual cycling Grand Prix.
Reform Councillor Jimmy Brookes said: “This would be absolutely fantastic for Lincolnshire. The more events we can get like this for residents, the better.”
He made the tongue-in-cheek suggestion that the route could go through his Skegness district so cyclists could “grab an ice cream”.
Reform Councillor Brenda Collier agreed: “This is an exciting project which has been put in our lap – it’s always good to advertise Lincolnshire.”
Council officers say it would lead to millions of pounds’ worth of media coverage, giving a big boost to the county’s reputation nationally and internationally.
However Conservative leader Councillor Richard Davies said the event would be unlikely to bring extra business to Lincolnshire.
“The hard truth is independent research on events like the Olympics and World Cup show they don’t actually have a positive economic impact to the areas which host them.
“While these events will attract a certain type of person, others will stay home because they know it’s on.
“I’m not saying we shouldn’t go for it, but we need to be honest about what it will achieve.”
The organiser, British Cycling Events, claims last year’s event led to £40million of benefits for the areas which hosted it, with spectators spending on accommodation, food and travel.
The exact cost to the council is still being determined, and officials are discussing whether authorities and partners could make a contribution.
If approved, the race would take place directly after the Steampunk festival, capping off a summer of culture in Lincoln.
The organisers are also said to be interested in holding a 2027 leg in Lincolnshire if the first is a success.
Six councillors endorsed the recommendation to host the event, with three abstaining until they received more data.
Councillor Natalie Oliver, who is in charge of culture, will make the final decision later this month.