THE First Minister Carwyn Jones said that the organisers of the Wales Velothon could have warned businesses and residents earlier about the disruption caused by the event.

In reply to Gwent AM William Graham, who raised the issue, he said that “there are concerns—the Member is right about the organisers’ communications strategy in terms of the event", adding: "He is right to say that many businesses and, indeed, residents feel that they’re not fully familiar with what the event will mean for Cardiff.”

The South Wales East Assembly Member originally raised the issue with the First Minister last week stating “that a number of businesses in my region, particularly those in Peterstone and St Bride’s Wentloog, are having enormous disruption on them. Unfortunately, the organisers have not engaged with those people to tell them well in advance the days it would happen and the roads that would be closed—they have to rely on public announcements.

He added “In future, First Minister, could you make sure that your officials engage with the organisers to make sure that businesses are not disrupted?”

The First Minister went on to add “Things, I think, should have been done a lot earlier in terms of the organisation’s communication”

Mr Graham has been approached by businesses in the area who are concerned regarding the lack of information and how their trade will be affected. One local resident was concerned that they might be trapped in their house for “all hours of the day”.

Many local authorities concerned with the Velothon feel misled that so little advance notice of major road closures was made. Letter delivered 10 days before the event are completely insufficient.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “The Velothon Wales is a major cycling event and a unique and exciting opportunity to showcase Wales to the world. With thousands registered to take part, over half of which are from outside Wales, and a global television audience, this one-day event is estimated to bring a direct economic impact of almost £2million to Wales.

“This is the first year this major, closed road event has come to Wales and unfortunately disruptions are inevitable. We recognise concerns that local businesses and people may have and we continue to work with the event organisers, police and local authorities to minimise disruption and deliver a safe and enjoyable event.”

Assembly Member Nick Ramsay has sent an urgent message to the Welsh Government Transport Minister, Edwina Hart, expressing his concern about the 2015 Velothon Wales event this coming Sunday which will result in road closures for much of the day in parts of his Monmouth constituency.

He says he has received a large number of letters and emails from constituents in recent days who have only just heard that the event is taking place in their area with resulting road closures.

He said: “It's clear that the communication with local businesses and the public generally in advance of this event has been woefully inadequate.

“It is completely unacceptable that Monmouthshire businesses are being affected in this way and for such an extended period of time. This should never have got to this point.

“I am raising this with the Welsh Government urgently, and expect immediate action. At the very least I would expect a measure of compensation for the businesses affected. It is madness that the economic harm to businesses risks outweighing any benefits of an event like this.”