On Saturday we reported the news that Surrey County Council have withdrawn its support for RideLondon from 2022. The story attracted a lively debate from our readers with many expressing their disappointment at the decision especially considering the event was supposed to provide a legacy to inspire the next generation of cyclists. Others, however, pointed out that the positives of hosting such events may be compromised by limited benefit for local cycling clubs and young riders.
One reader suggested: "the main issue holding them [young cyclists wanting to get into the sport] back is a lack of safe places to practice and the aggressive nature of other road users. That's not going be solved by this event- but safe cycle routes are a massive step in the right direction.
"The route is not very well designed to reduce the impact on local residents with many areas virtually cut off. Yes, it's only a day but the impact was huge, cutting people off from most shops, local transport and major roads out of the county.
"Most of the people I heard moaning about this had valid points and were not all car nuts (although undoubtedly some were). Surely some compromises could have been made on both sides eg route amends, running it every other year etc so both locals, cyclists and residents could continue to benefit."
Another added: "I am Chairman of a reasonably successful Surrey cycling club and one of our principles is to run rides without p*ssing off residents and car drivers. We run about 300 weekend and weekday rides a year and try not to shove cycling up the noses of people who don't share our passion for the sport.
"There are hundreds of sportives all over the country which don't annoy the locals (well, there were pre-covid). Many of these are brilliant and raise money for charities."
Let us know your thoughts...Do mass participation closed road events simply ask to much of host towns/counties? Or are they necessary for inspiring the next generation of cyclists?