£1 million boost to deliver lasting legacy for Scotland.
A social impact programme will be rolled out to help
capture the “once in a generation” benefits of hosting the 2027
Tour de France Grand Départ.
National governing body, Scottish Cycling, will work with local
authorities and community organisations to deliver a range of
projects, funded by £1 million from the Scottish Government.
They will aim to bring long lasting social benefits across
communities by helping tackle inactivity, improving mental
wellbeing and increasing participation.
Business Minister announced the funding
during a visit to Rural and Urban Training Scheme in Penicuik,
where young people are already experiencing the positive impact
of cycling initiatives.
Mr Lochhead said: “Hosting the opening stage of the 2027 Tour de
France Grand Départ is a once in a generation opportunity. It is
the biggest free spectator event in the world and will showcase
our country to a global audience.
“But it is about more than just a race. This £1 million
investment will ensure communities feel the benefits across
Scotland, supporting people to become more active, improving
wellbeing and helping local areas to thrive long after the race
has left.
“The Tour de France is just one of three upcoming major sporting
events – along with this summer's Commonwealth Games and the UEFA
EURO 2028 football championships - that will underline Scotland's
status as a global sporting venue.”
Chief Executive of Scottish Cycling Nick Rennie said:
“Today is a huge milestone on the journey towards the 2027 Tour
de France Grand Depart and underlines the Scottish Government's
commitment to ensuring this is more than just a bike race, but
something that positively impacts the people of Scotland.
"We're very proud the Scottish Government sees us as a trusted
delivery partner and will be doing everything we can to get
people from all walks of life on their bikes.”
Champion junior cyclist Daisy Wilkinson, who is on the GB Olympic
pathway, said:
“It's amazing to be involved today and to see so many young
people enjoying cycling. I've no doubt the Tour de France will
inspire many more people to get on a bike too. I'm already so
excited for the Tour de France Grand Depart next summer and will
be out on the road cheering on riders.”
Background
The Grand Départ will begin in Edinburgh on 2 July 2027 before
travelling through Midlothian, the Scottish Borders and Dumfries
and Galloway, finishing in Carlisle.
Scottish Cycling will work closely with partners to design and
deliver activity that creates long-term impact, aligning with the
wider UK-wide social impact programme, Joy, led by British
Cycling.
The Tour de France Grand Départ is expected to generate
significant economic benefits for Scotland, alongside increased
participation in cycling and community activity.
The Scottish Government is investing up to £9.25 million to
support the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ in Scotland. Of
that, £1 million will deliver a dedicated social impact programme
designed to ensure the event leaves a legacy.
