In gear to extend big bike event

Organisers of the Etape Caledonia cycling event have revealed proposals to extend the sportive in 2017.

They want to introduce a new batch of road closures in a handful of communities which could refresh some of the challenges, with parts of Glen Lyon on the cards.

IMG, which runs the event, wants to add the scenic area around Ben Lawers to an 81-mile route that already visits the lower slopes of Schiehallion.

Community councils and elected members have already warned of massive disruption. They have also criticised IMG for a lack of communication with affected residents.

A number of traffic diversion options have already been discussed, but community councillors are seeking more information from Etape organisers.

Highland councillor Ian Campbell said: “Local councillors were asked for their views and we advised IMG to seek the views of the community before firming up their proposals.

“It would appear that both local community councils had a meeting with IMG representatives – and that their view about the proposal was certainly lukewarm – but as far as I am aware no other community consultation has been held.

“IMG’s proposal is to close one lane of the main road between Kenmore and Killin and redirect some traffic along the south side of Loch Tay. In my view this is fraught with problems.”

Councillor Mike Williamson, who represents the same ward, added: “I do not see benefit to anyone in the communities that would be affected by this extension of the route, just roads that would be closed and disrupted for hours.”

A spokeswoman for Perth and Kinross Council said IMG was seeking an extension to the existing route “in response to a significant number of requests from participants for a longer route option”.

One Highland Perthshire resident who lives near the Etape route said they had only recently become aware of the proposals, but said it would make little difference to them.

The woman who asked not to be identified, said: “It makes no difference if it’s on my doorstep as they are planning, or miles away as it is at the moment, I am unable to go anywhere on the day because of the extent of road closures.”