Pembrokeshire’s annual Long Course Weekend triathlon cycling event could be run on a different route in future, in an attempt to alleviate what is said to be concerns from local councillors, who have pointed to some communities being left “at breaking point” due to road closures.

The Tenby-based multi-day triathlon events featuring a swim, cycle and marathon which are held over the course of three-days, have been held in the county since summer 2010, but concerns have been raised about loss of trade and inconvenience due to road closures associated with it, particularly concerning the cycling event.

Saundersfoot county councillors Cllr Chris Williams and Cllr Alec Cormack had asked, at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s full council, that the council withdraw support for the annual Long Course Weekend.

That support takes the form of ‘in-kind’ support such as road closures and car parking rather than a direct financial input.

Their Notice of Motion stated: “This multi-day triathlon event, typically taking place in June, has been a significant success in terms of showcasing our county and promoting physical activity. However, as the event has grown in scale, it has increasingly led to disruption for residents and businesses along the course, many of whom report inconvenience or loss of trade due to road closures spanning up to three days.”

It ended, proposing that: “PCC withdraw all support for the Long Course Weekend moving forward, ensuring that council resources are directed towards services and initiatives that directly benefit the wider community”.

In a supporting statement, the two councillors said: “Our community is at breaking point; residents and businesses in Saundersfoot, Amroth, Wisemans Bridge and Coppet Hall are effectively cut-off for the majority of a Saturday each June/July by the Long Course Weekend two-lap bike race.

“Many other areas of South Pembs are similarly affected, some on both Saturday and Sunday if they are also on the run course too.”

Since their notice of motion was publicised, an alternative arrangement was mooted by the Long Course organisers on the eve of the council meeting.

Members at the December meeting were told the alternate routes could see the cycling element take place in a single loop, reaching further into the northern part of the county.

Cllr Williams asked, in light of the late proposals for alternative routes to alleviate the issue, his joint notice not be proceeded with, calling for the latest changes to be considered by council scrutiny committee ahead of any decision by Cabinet.

“The most important consideration is the Long Course route, matters in this notice of motion can therefore then be considered.”

PCC’s Chief Executive Will Bramble said the alternate proposals which may minimise disruption and may not lead to road closures may alleviate much of the “negative feedback,” with the potential new route taking the cycling event out towards Angle and up towards Fishguard.

Members supported an officer report detailing the organisers’ proposals be sent to scrutiny committee in early 2025, ahead of any Cabinet decision early in the new year.