HIGHLAND PERTHSHIRE is set to become home to a new international cycling event, unique in the UK, that will open up a new lucrative tourism market.

The Etape Caledonia—a bold initiative in British cycling—will deliver closed road cycling to all standards of cyclists. Some 2500 people could be attracted to Perthshire for the first event this year, bringing £500,000 to the economy, with numbers growing annually.

Head of Perth and Kinross Council’s economic development section, Ken MacDonald, said, “We… aim to become one of Scotland’s foremost event destinations by the attraction, creation and development of major events in the area.

“Hosting this event would be a significant benefit to the economy of Highland Perthshire and if it is successful and becomes established, it could put the area firmly in the focus of the national and international cycling community.

“I understand this inaugural event has drawn interest from Canada and the US. There is every reason to believe this commitment by cyclists will contribute to the event’s success.”

Kevin Stewart, director of Etape Caledonia, said, “We are looking to lead the way in providing a prestige event for cycling in the UK and to establish a major annual event—similar to well-established marathons and 10K runs—that will see participation increasing year on year.

“As long as they are able to meet the minimum entry requirements, participants of all levels can sign up to this new and exciting event.

“We expect to draw enthusiasts, the health conscious, challenge-seekers, charity fund-raisers and lapsed cyclists. This year we are hoping to attract as many as 2500 entrants.

“Establishing the event requires a great deal of effort and we are working very closely with local residents and businesses, Perth and Kinross Council and Tayside Police to minimise any disruption to the local communities as far as possible. This level of co-operation will help to make the event a fixture on the annual calendar and make a significant contribution to the local economy.”

It is estimated that in its first year the event could bring £500,000 to the local economy and generate an estimated 4000 bed-nights at a traditionally quieter time for tourism businesses in Highland Perthshire—between the May bank holidays and start of Scottish school holidays.

Mr MacDonald added, “Public meetings have already taken place. With the organisers we are arranging some information days when we will provide residents and businesses with clear information on the roads that are to be closed, the times they will be closed and the alternatives that may be available to allow access.

“In addition to maintaining a dedicated residents’ page on the event website (www.etapecaledonia.co. uk), the organisers are preparing letters for residents on each section of the route to give them specific information. Discussions are continuing with businesses on the route.”

The event offers opportunities nationally and internationally to promote Highland Perthshire as an area of outstanding natural beauty perfectly suited for outdoor activities and is also a location which hosts major international events.

Participants will have the opportunity to complete either a challenging 83-mile route or a shorter 28-mile route planned for this year’s event.