AN opposition councillor has labelled consultation over plans for this summer’s Tour de France in York a “farce”.

Liberal Democrat councillor Nigel Ayre said City of York Council’s plans to turn the city’s historic Monk Stray into a camping ground and event hub were advertised in January before any public consultation.

When contacted by The Press, the council highlighted a series of information sessions across the city this month and next, but Coun Ayre, councillor for Heworth Without, claims the nearest meeting for Heworth residents, on Wednesday, from 6pm to 7.30pm at Bell Farm Social Hall, Roche Avenue, is too far away.

He said: “The council’s consultation on the plans for Monk Stray have been a farce from the beginning.

“The camping and entertainment was advertised to visitors before any local residents were told... it was only when I raised concerns and organised a public meeting that the council was forced to act.

“The venue they have chosen for their public information event is ridiculous. It is miles away from the residents who will be most affected by the plans – namely those that live in the Stockton Lane area of Heworth Without Ward.

“Roche Avenue is not on a direct bus route from this area and the venue will be simply inaccessible to many elderly and vulnerable residents.

“I have asked the council to rethink and choose one of the available local venues such as the Church Hall on Stockton Lane.”

For a full list of meeting venues and times see york.gov.uk/tourdefrance or experiencetherace.com