Businesses in Ipswich are set to benefit from a £250,000 financial boost when the 2013 Pearl Izumi Tour Series reaches fever pitch in the town today, experts predict.

The grand finale of Britain’s leading cycle race will sweep through the streets of Ipswich with 15,000 people expected to line the route to see some of the country’s best athletes on two wheels pitted against each other.

And industry insiders have revealed businesses can expect to gain from a £250,000 windfall as cycling enthusiasts flock to shops, restaurants and hotels across the town while soaking up the action between 3pm and 9pm.

The estimate is based on the economic impact the Pearl Izumi Tour Series had in towns and cities in 2012.

Suffolk is no stranger to feeling the financial benefit of hosting major cycling events, having pocketed £2.65 million after becoming a key fixture of the Tour of Britain, hosting the event three times since 2010.

Councillor Alan Murray, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for health and adult care, highlighted the importance of the economic impact these high-profile events have for the region.

“Not only do local businesses benefit from the immediate trade – but they should also be able to capitalise on the long term effects of raising Suffolk’s profile,” he said.

“I’m very much looking forward to seeing our county town shine today and showing the country how well Suffolk hosts events like these.”

In its fifth season of racing, the exciting brand of cycling showcases Britain’s top professional teams and cyclists in the town for the first time ever.

Ten teams, consisting of five riders, will go head-to-head in a team time trial and a fast-paced circuit race at speeds of over 30mph.

Three separate races, including a new 12-pro rider contest dubbed the Suffolk Most Active County Sprint Challenge, and a race between amateur teams from local business will also be staged.

The course starts and finishes on the Cornhill and passes through Westgate Street, Museum Street, Princes Street, along Buttermarket to Upper Brook Street and back along Tavern Street.

Keen spectators will have an opportunity to cycle the 1.2km circuit themselves before the professionals take to the course.

There will also be a range of activities to take part in, including a rollerdrome where people can attempt to get to the top of the leaderboard with the fastest time.

Thousands flocked to the streets of Colchester when the band of elite cyclists competed in a thrilling road race two weeks ago, while the penultimate race is due to take place in Aylsham, Norfolk, tonight.

Highlights of the Ipswich race will be shown on ITV4 at 10pm on Monday, and repeated at 1pm the following day.