Essex gained a multi-million pound economic boost from the Tour de France, according to a report published today.
The report, which examined the economic and social impact of hosting the Tour de France, showed that the race generated a £130 million economic boost to the UK, with Essex and Cambridgeshire sharing £10.5 million, although no statistics for Essex alone have been released yet.
Gary Sullivan, Chairman of Active Essex, said: "We have known for some time now that sport has a significant impact on the economy and Essex sees sport as a major driver for economic growth. What is particularly pleasing is that major sporting events are inspiring young and old to get active and, in the case of the Tour de France, get active through cycling".
And cycling and fitness clubs around Essex have reported a boost in their numbers, with Braintree District Council noting an increase in visitors in the Council's leisure centres by 28,000 this summer, compared to last, which is believed to be a knock-on effect of the Tour de France, while a survey carried out by Uttlesford District Council found that residents believed the race had benefitted businesses in the local area, increased tourism, increased cycling and exercise and had been positive for Uttlesford district and Essex county.
Following the race's popularity, Uttlesford District Council has also pledged to look at various cycle path initiatives, and is supporting the Wenden Road scheme by agreeing to underwrite £200,000 to help fund the project.
Cllr Ray Gooding, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, with responsibility for sport, said: "The Tour de France was a definite highlight of the past year in Essex and I am pleased that it has given our economy such a big boost.
"The boost will continue in years to come as we were able to showcase our beautiful county and show the world how much it has to offer.
"Tourism makes a multi-million pound contribution to the economy in Essex, supporting hotels, pubs, restaurants and attractions."
