Businesses have given a mixed reaction to the Prudential RideLondon cycling event, after the routes for this year’s races were announced.

The routes for the charity ride and the elite race, featuring 150 of the top male professional cyclists, on Sunday, August 10, are similar to last year, although the Surrey section from Leatherhead to Esher goes through Oxshott instead of Cobham.

Extensive road closures threaten to impact trade in Elmbridge villages and towns although organisers have promised rolling road closures during the elite race, to lessen the impact on residents and businesses.

Deputy manager of the Bear in Esher Chris Anderson said while RideLondon was positive for the local community, the planned closures would severely hit the pub’s trade.

He said: “It has a massive negative impact every time it happens. It brings trade to a complete standstill and we will get about five people in during the day.”

The co-owner of G!RO cycle cafe in Esher, Jordan Addison, did not think the race would affect business on the day and saw the mass-participation event and elite race only benefiting the town.

He said: “I am 100 per cent for it. We are going to have an international cycle race coming through so it’s a good opportunity for the community to stop and come together.”

Surrey County Council, in partnership with affected London boroughs, has launched a community engagement programme including leaflet drops, access plans and drop-in sessions to help residents and businesses cope with road closures.

The leader of Surrey County Council David Hodge said: “Following our feedback asking the organisers to limit impact on residents and businesses, we’re pleased they’ve introduced several rolling road closures and focused the afternoon action around Dorking this year.

“We’re looking forward to another fantastic day of cycling in Surrey that will draw thousands of visitors to our towns and villages, raise millions for good causes and showcase our county to the world.”