Road shutdown for Olympic cycle race test

 
Gold medal hopeful: Mark Cavendish. All roads within this area will be closed, restricted or heavily congested. M3, M25, A3 and roads forming the boundary area are unlikely to be affected
10 April 2012

Large parts of the road network in central and south London will be closed on Sunday for the biggest 2012 test event yet in the capital.

The London-Surrey Cycle Classic will replicate next year's Olympic cycle road race. Starting and finishing at The Mall, it will feature the world's top riders, including British gold medal hopeful Mark Cavendish.

The 140km route will mean road closures across Westminster, Chelsea, Fulham, Putney, Richmond, Hampton Court, Kingston and parts of Surrey, from early in the morning until mid-afternoon.

Today Transport for London advised people to check routes before they travel. Garrett Emmerson, TfL's chief operating officer for streets, said: "The race will play an important role in ensuring transport and the capital are fully prepared for the 2012 Games.

"There will be a major impact on transport on the day, with many roads closed. We strongly advise people to plan their travel this weekend and avoid driving in south-west and central London if at all possible."

The race begins at 9am but some roads in central London will close between 4am and 3pm.

Organisers are also warning pedestrians to watch out for high-speed team cars and other vehicles that will be used, and are asking people to cross the street only at designated "safe" points.

Spectators will need special free wristbands to watch the race at The Mall and Box Hill, one of the key climbs on the course.

London 2012 Chairman Lord Coe said: "This is going to be a fantastic race. Our course, with its interesting route and impressive technical elements, has attracted the best nations and pro cycling teams in the world.

"However, as with any major road event - in particular one that moves through so many different areas of London and the South-East - there will be a significant impact on traffic and transport.

"We want to draw attention to this to make sure people plan their weekend accordingly."

Where to watch

The Mall - start 09.00 and finish 12.10
Fulham - 09.05 and 12.05
Putney - 09.10 and 12
Richmond Park - 09.15 and 11.55
Richmond - 09.20
Bushy Park - 09.30
Hampton Court Palace - 09.35 and 11.40
Walton-on-Thames - 09.45
Ripley Village - 10.05
Gomshall - 10.25
Westcott - 10.30
Dorking - 10.35
Box Hill (restricted access) - between 10.40 and 11.20
Esher - 11.35
Kingston - 11.50 (at which point riders will begin their return to central London, via Richmond Park, Putney and Fulham.

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