The head of Bradford Council’s Conservative group has accused the authority of not doing enough to forewarn Ilkley and Keighley people about the disruption the Tour de France could bring.

Worth Valley councillor, Glen Miller, welcomes the fact the world-famous cycle race is heading this way.

But he says residents living along the route will be severely affected and should be warned of the implications.

The Tour will pass through Ilkley and Addingham, as well as the Keighley area, as part of its Grand Depart next July.

Councillor Miller said: “I am delighted the residents of Keighley, Ilkley and the surrounding villages will have a once in a lifetime, front row view of this amazing spectacle and visitor numbers will be boosted massively, but I think it is important we give residents as much detailed forewarning as possible, so that when the disruption does come, people will be prepared and not have any negative experiences of the event.”

He said some residents may face problems about where they can park their cars or what roads they can use, and many people would not be able to cross the street when the route was cordoned off.

“Whilst I think the Council is doing a good job of publicising the event and marketing the towns and villages on the route, I am concerned we are not providing enough forewarning to residents of the impacts,” he added.

A meeting took place in Ilkley this week between a ward and parish councillor, and representatives of Ilkley Cycling Club, to discuss ways of promoting better understanding between cyclists and other road users.