July 26, 2026 - 260 views
Communities across Wales are set to benefit from a £4.5 million investment in cycling tourism infrastructure as the Welsh Government looks to ensure the arrival of the Tour de France Grand Départ leaves a lasting legacy long after the world's biggest cycling race has moved on.
The funding, announced today (Sunday, July 26), will help create a national network of cycling hubs, routes and visitor facilities designed to encourage more people to cycle while boosting local tourism and economies.
The investment forms part of the Welsh Government's wider legacy plans linked to the Tour de France Grand Départ, which is expected to come to Wales in 2027. The event will be free for spectators and is forecast to attract more than one million visitors to the Welsh stages, while a global television audience of around 150 million people in 190 countries will showcase Wales to the world.
The £4.5m package will be delivered through the Brilliant Basics capital fund, with £2m available during 2026-27 and a further £2.5m in 2027-28.
Funding will support the development of destination cycling hubs, smaller micro-hubs and improved signage. Potential facilities include secure cycle parking, bike storage, e-bike charging points, repair and maintenance stations, drinking water facilities, cycle hire and visitor information.
The Welsh Government says the aim is to ensure communities continue to benefit long after the Tour has finished by making it easier for residents and visitors alike to explore Wales by bike.
Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy Adam Price said: "As this year's Tour de France draws to a close, we are already looking ahead to the excitement of welcoming the event to Wales next year.
"I am determined that when Wales hosts major events of this scale, we put strong legacy plans in place so the benefits are felt long after the event itself.
"The Tour de France will give us a unique platform to promote Wales on the world stage, attract visitors and investment, encourage healthier and more active lifestyles, and create lasting opportunities for communities and businesses across Wales."
Minister for Culture and Sport Heledd Fychan said hosting one of the world's most prestigious sporting events presented a huge opportunity for Wales.
"The Tour de France is one of sport's great events and hosting it next year in Wales is a tremendous opportunity.
"Ensuring we maximise the impact and legacy is crucial, and the funding today will help achieve that by providing more facilities for cycling across the country."
Former Tour de France champion and Wales Cycling Ambassador Geraint Thomas welcomed the announcement, describing the race as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity for cycling in Wales".
He added: "This investment in lasting infrastructure means more people – whether seasoned cyclists or those just starting out – will be able to enjoy everything Wales has to offer on two wheels, long after the race has finished."
The investment builds on Wales' growing reputation as a destination for road cycling, mountain biking, gravel riding and family leisure cycling, with ministers hoping improved facilities will encourage more visitors while supporting healthier lifestyles for local communities.
Local authorities and national park authorities will be invited to submit bids for funding. Applications open on August 10 and close at 1pm on September 25, with successful projects expected to improve the visitor experience while delivering clear benefits for the communities in which they are based.
