Tour of Britain Women's race set to close Cockermouth roads

The Tour of Britain Women’s 2026 cycle race kicks off its first stage in Cockermouth, prompting Cumberland Council to announce planned road restrictions.

The scheduled restrictions are set to take effect on Wednesday, August 19.

It is expected that the restrictions will only be required for one day.

The roads set to be affected include Main Street, Station Street, and Lorton Street, along with several others in the surrounding area.

In addition to road closures, the existing speed restrictions—20 mph, 30 mph, 40 mph, and 50 mph—will be suspended during the specified times.

However, the order does not apply to emergency service vehicles, vehicles used to remove traffic obstructions, or those with explicit permission from a police constable, civil enforcement officer, or traffic marshal of the event.

Pedestrian access to premises situated on or adjacent to the roads will not be affected, and motor vehicles or pedal cycles involved in facilitating the event are also exempt from the restrictions.

Cumberland Council has advised that additional roads may also be restricted at the direction of a police constable in uniform to facilitate the event routes.

The race is expected to attract a significant number of spectators, and the council is advising residents and businesses to plan ahead to minimise disruption.

The council has also provided a hotline for any queries regarding the temporary road closures.

Residents can contact the Highways Hotline on 0300 373 3736 or visit the Cumberland Council website.

As the race day approaches, the council will continue to provide updates and information to the public through various channels, including their website and social media platforms.

For more notices affecting YOUR area, visit our Public Notice Portal at publicnoticeportal.uk/whitehaven-news.