The countdown is on to this year’s sold-out IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea, with thousands of competitors, supporters and spectators expected to descend on the city next month.
The popular triathlon, which combines swimming, cycling and running, returns on Sunday, July 12, bringing a significant boost to Swansea’s tourism, hospitality and hotel sectors.
Organisers estimate the event is worth around £4.5 million annually to the local economy, with athletes travelling from across the UK and beyond, many accompanied by family and friends who will stay in the city over the race weekend.
With the event now fully booked, Swansea Council is reminding residents, businesses and visitors to prepare for a series of temporary road closures that will be in place to ensure the safety of competitors and spectators.
Most of the road closures will take place on Sunday, July 12, although a temporary closure will also be in force on Saturday in East Burrows Road and Somerset Place near the swimming event site.
The road closure arrangements are largely the same as previous years, with some minor amendments made following feedback from local residents and businesses.
A number of key routes across Swansea city centre, Mumbles, Gower and surrounding communities will be affected throughout the day. Event organisers have said they will work to reopen roads as quickly as possible once competitors have passed through.
Residents and businesses located along the route will receive information detailing how travel may be affected in their area. Clearly signposted diversion routes will also be in place.
Emergency access will be maintained throughout the event, while essential access for carers can be arranged by contacting organisers before July 10.
A dedicated road access helpline has also been established for residents and businesses.
Head of Cultural Services, Parks & Cleansing Tracey McNutley, said: “IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea is a fantastic event for the city, bringing significant economic benefits to local businesses.
“IRONMAN 70.3 in Swansea is one of the post popular events of its kind and hotels, restaurants and other hospitality businesses do well from it.
“However, we understand that road closures can cause disruption, and we’d like to thank residents and businesses in advance for their patience and cooperation.
“We strongly encourage everyone to check the road closure information ahead of the event and plan their travel accordingly to minimise any inconvenience.”
Signage will be installed across affected areas in the lead-up to the event, and residents and visitors are being encouraged to use public transport wherever possible and allow extra time for journeys on race day.
Full details of road closures, timings and route maps are available on the official event website.
