A NEW velodrome is open for business as it becomes the latest development to get on track at a flagship sports complex.

The £1.6 million track, built with a £500,000 contribution from British Cycling, is the latest addition to the £21 million Middlesbrough Sports Village.

The Velodrome, which is open from Friday, is the latest addition to Middlesbrough’s growing cycling offer, and sits next door to the existing 1km Cycle Circuit and nearby Prissick Plaza.

The 250m track will be used predominantly by affiliated clubs, creating a major opportunity for cyclists across the North East to train and compete at a top class facility.

British Cycling’s coaching, education and development director John Mills, said: “With less than one year to go until the Olympic and Paralympic Games, having another facility of this standard reflects the great progress that has been made in cycling infrastructure here in the UK.

“It’s fantastic that British Cycling clubs are going to have access to the track and therefore increase the spectrum of activities they are able to offer.

“Building our network of facilities will also help to ensure that anyone who wants to get involved in the sport has an accessible and affordable location close-by with support from British Cycling qualified coaches.”

Access to the Velodrome will be open to those with track cycling accreditation from any indoor velodrome in the country or either of the outdoor velodromes at York and Bournemouth.

Sessions must be supervised by a British Cycling Level 2 track specific coach, with riders required to use specialist fixed wheel track bikes and wear helmets at all time, and the track will also be available for hire by clubs and organisations.

For further information contact Scott Hydon on 01642-515625 or email scott_hydon@middlesbrough.gov.uk