Calls to bring Commonwealth Games road race to Black Country gather pace

Halesowen Athletic and Cycling Club boss David Viner has called on Wolverhampton council’s Roger Lawrence to bid for the Black Country to host road cycling event at the 2022 games.

Mr Viner said: “There is an acknowledgement that Wolverhampton needs to be part of the games.

"Using the Severn Valley GP circuit, from Wolverhampton to Birmingham, would make for the best circuit in the West Midlands. It has got the continuation of flat roads and beautiful countryside, it has got all of the ingredients of a fantastic event.”

The calls have been backed by Wolverhampton cycling legend Hugh Porter who said there was ‘plenty of time’ left to secure the Black Country’s spot in the event.

Mr Porter said: “To have the Commonwealth Games in the area would be absolutely phenomenal.”

Councillor Roger Lawrence, the leader of Wolverhampton Council, said: “This is an interesting idea, but plans are most likely already well-advanced by the organisers at this stage. I suspect it may be a bit late in the day to change those plans.

“If requested, we would support the cycling initiative. There will certainly be other opportunities for the city of Wolverhampton around the Commonwealth Games and we have formed a working group to look at how we can maximise those benefits.”

A Birmingham 2022 spokesperson said: “The route for the road race is the subject of discussions with a range of partner organisations and sport bodies to ensure that the technical requirements of the sport are met and that the West Midlands is presented in the best possible way.

“Consideration also has to be given to ensuring the region’s transport networks can still function effectively when the races take place and that the selected route offers a good challenge for the athletes.

“The final route will be announced closer to the start of Birmingham 2022.”