THE organisers of a triathlon cycle race have changed its route in a bid to appease residents angry over the road closures it will cause.
As reported in the Advertiser in the last two weeks, villagers from Ockley, Forest Green, Holmbury St Mary and Abinger Common reacted with rage at the news roads would be closed for eight hours when the Vachery Triathlon takes place on July 21.
The row prompted angry scenes at a meeting between 150 residents and representatives of organisers Brave Events on April 11, with publicans claiming the closures – which were approved by Surrey County Council – would cost them thousands of pounds in takings.
This week, Brave Events spokesman Richard Campbell said the company had listened to the community's concerns and introduced more flexible arrangements to allow customers to enjoy Sunday lunch at the area's pubs.
They have also moved the route away from Ockley altogether, he said.
Mr Campbell continued: "It is not our intention for people to be 'marooned in an island' – our marshals and partners in the police can help manage people's movements on the Sunday morning in particular and help them negotiate the closed roads.
"We would love to hear from any businesses or residents that have pre-planned movements so that we can facilitate them and offer them practical solutions."
Mr Campbell said controlled crossing points would be operated to allow traffic to move freely, with roads gradually reopened as the last riders passed along the course.
This process was likely to start at 11.30am, he said, enabling most lunchtime trade to proceed unaffected.
Supporters of the 1,500 competitors will also be encouraged to use certain pubs nominated along the race route for use as official "cheer points".
Mr Campbell added: "We have spoken with pubs and restaurants affected and reassured them that customers will have access to their business for their normal lunchtime service and, indeed, we even hope that their businesses will be boosted by trade from the 1,500 athletes and their families visiting the area.
"Even during peak times during the race, we can facilitate movements in and out of the area through a major crossing point and we would urge people to contact us with their requirements so we can help them.
"The race is still three months away and we are continuously consulting with residents and businesses and providing solutions.
"All emergency vehicles will have access in and out of the area, care visits can and are being facilitated and we can also help with arranging and advising animal husbandry requirements."
Residents can find updated information online at www. vacherytriathlon.co.uk
