A BUSINESSMAN has complained about the closure of York city centre streets for cycle races tomorrow, claiming local businesses were not consulted.

Ernie Dickinson, who runs a food outlet in Church Street, said the closures would come on a busy Sunday at the height of the tourist season and businesses should have been informed. He said the last time barriers and road closed signs were placed in the street his takings were reduced by 66 per cent.

City centre manager Paul Barrett said a letter, advising businesses of tomorrow’s event, was included inside a quarterly 4-page glossy newsletter – Your City Centre – which had been hand delivered on a street-by-street basis by cycle couriers.

He said: “The event is a big plus for York, and was much welcomed at the Retailers Forum, and indeed should bring extra footfall and potential spend to city centre businesses.”

The Cycling City Races are being organised by Cycling City York, with Clifton Cycling Club and British Cycling, and will feature 12 different races, including ones for younger cyclists, a family event and a race for disabled cyclists.