All change for next year's Velo cycling event

Velo Birmingham Midlands will take cyclists east of Birmingham for the majority of the event, which will take place on May 12.

It will only briefly enter the boundaries of Sandwell and Dudley when the route turns east at Halesowen and down the Hagley Road West to the finishing line in Birmingham.

Last year the race divided opinion after it brought many villages in South Staffordshire and Dudley to a standstill.

The organisers were blamed for failing to consult over the route.

Some businesses were forced to shut and saboteurs left nails and tacks along the route.

However, today, organisers revealed the change in route with Lord Sebastian Coe and England World Cup winning captain Martin Johnson to attending the launch event in Birmingham.

It is expected that 17,000 riders will take part next year. Last year there were around 15,000.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said last year's event was an 'absolute triumph'.

He said: “As we get ready to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the Vélo Birmingham and Midlands will be a great event to showcase the best of the region.

"This was an absolute triumph last year with 15,000 people riding their bikes on the closed road route and many residents coming out to support them.

"There was also a very positive impact on the local economy, and of course the thousands of pounds raised for different charities."

Despite the route only touching the boundaries of Sandwell and Dudley, both councils have had involvement in preparations.

Councillor David Hosell, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for highways and environment, said: “It’s fantastic for Sandwell to be part of this major cycling event for the region and we’ll be sure to give riders a big cheer as they cycle past our newly-restored Lightwoods House and Park on the way to the finish line.

"We will be working closely with the team at Vélo Birmingham Midlands for a successful event that also keeps disruption on our roads to a minimum.”

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for environmental services at Dudley Council, said: “We pride ourselves on having some fantastic facilities in this borough for people to enjoy a healthy lifestyle and experience the great outdoors.

"The newly named Vélo Birmingham Midlands is a great opportunity for communities to come together and we’re delighted to be a small part of this nationally recognised event. We have also worked hard with the organisers to ensure that disruption for residents is kept to a minimum, the event runs smoothly through our borough and is enjoyed by cyclists and onlookers alike.”

Last year's event went through the parish of Trysull and Seisdon, with cyclists passing the Holly Bush pub and down the Seisdon Road and School Road before turning onto Wombourne.

Chairman Councillor Paul Compson said: "I've got mixed feelings about this announcement.

"It felt like last year it was almost dropped on us and there was little consultation. It led to strong objections from members of the public.

"But on the day there was actually a good turn-out of support.

"And while there was some disruption for a few hours, people seemed to enjoy it.

"I respect the organisers' decision and wish them well for next year."

People can sign up for the event from October 4, however there is expected to be fierce competition with 40,000 riders already registering interest.

For more information, visit www.velobirmingham.com