Anger as Epping roads to be closed for RideLondon on Sunday

More than 100 miles of road across Essex, including Epping Forest, will be closed on Sunday May 29 for RideLondon.

A petition had been lodged to prevent RideLondon continuing to take place in Essex, which reached 900 signatures. Uttlesford MP Kemi Badenoch and Essex County Council also received many concerns.

Read More: Roads in Epping Forest to be closed for RideLondon cycle event 20th February

Many complaints come from residents feeling trapped inside the area surrounded by the route, which includes Loughton and parts of Epping. There are also concerns that businesses will be affected by the closures.

Others have voiced support for the event, highlighting that it is just one day of fun a year for spectators and participants as well as a way to raise money for charity.

Cllr Lee Scott, Essex County Council’s cabinet member for highways, maintenance and sustainable transport, said: "We’re delighted to be partnering with RideLondon.

Ride London 2015 image by Surrey County Council

"Essex has a strong legacy in major cycling events, having previously hosted the mountain biking at the London 2012 Olympic Games and a stage of the Tour de France in 2014.

"With our beautiful countryside and picturesque villages, there’s a lot more to Essex than a lot of people realise and we’re looking forward to showcasing the county to riders and spectators alike."

The M11, M25, A13, A406 and A120 will all operate as usual allowing travel around the disruption.

The race will result in 25,000 cyclists passing through Epping Forest and the closure of over 100 miles of road.

The mass participation race on Sunday will close Epping roads from 1PM and there will be temporary road closures for the first stages of the women’s professional cycle race on Saturday.

Hugh Brasher, event director of RideLondon, said: “This will be a fantastic new route which I am sure will excite participants.”