BRINGING the Tour of Britain to Warrington will cost the council up to £180,000 – but the investment is being tipped to generate a ‘significant return’.

The town will host a finish for one of the stages of the bike race in September.

The finish line is planned to be located in the town centre close to the Town Hall.

Previously, the likes of Bradley Wiggins, Mark Cavendish and Julian Alaphilippe have competed in the race.

The tour was last in Warrington in 2012 when it went through areas including Culcheth and Lymm

Council chief executive Steven Broomhead said the Labour-run authority will be securing some private sponsorship to support the ‘nationally prestigious’ event.

He added: “The event will bring significant social and economic benefits to the town, give us national and international profile, promote cycling, encourage people to improve their wellbeing and generate a major spectacular event.

“The return on the council’s investment will be evaluated but is expected to generate a significant return on this investment.”

Although it could cost the council up to £180,000, the sum will depend on how much external funding it can obtain.

Last month, council leader Cllr Russ Bowden said that although hosting part of the tour will come at a cost amid austerity, it will deliver major financial benefits to the town.

He also told cabinet members that the ‘economic gearing is in excess of 20 to one’ for Warrington.

Furthermore, Cllr Tony Higgins, cabinet member for leisure and community, tipped it to boost the borough’s economy by generating ‘millions of pounds’ through hotel bookings, restaurant reservations and parking fees.