Olympic gold medallist Chris Boardman opened Knowsley’s new £1.4m velodrome and BMX track facility – funded by British Cycling, NHS Knowsley and Sports England.
Photo courtesy of James Maloney/LIVERPOOL ECHO
Based at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park in Huyton, the 400m velodrome has a 7m cycle track with the BMX course built to national standard, including a pump track.
In addition, bike and safety equipment hire will be available as well as training and accreditation sessions, and dedicated sessions for the public, schools and clubs, allowing everyone to try cycling whether complete novices or enthusiasts.
"British Cycling is very pleased with the new facility, and as well as the velodrome, a much needed national standard BMX track."
David Cockram, National Facilities Officer at British Cycling
David Cockram, National Facilities Officer at British Cycling said: "British Cycling is very pleased with the new facility, and as well as the velodrome, a much needed national standard BMX track is available for Knowsley and the wider Merseyside and West Lancashire Region.
“It has been a pleasure to work with Knowsley Council and partners over the last five years to make the project a reality, and we look forward to developing a programme of cycling activity that will benefit the local community.”
The track is expected to attract more than 10,000 users every year, and will host a range of local, regional and national cycling events. Knowsley BMX club is one of a number of clubs who will be based at the new facility.
Councilor Eddie Connor, Cabinet Member for Community, Leisure and Culture added: “It’s great to see the opening of this exciting new facility, providing our residents with the very best leisure opportunities.
“This fantastic new velodrome and BMX track makes cycling accessible to everybody – so if you have been inspired by the likes of Bradley Wiggins or Sarah Storey you can try out the sport for yourself – and you don’t need to spend lots of money on the equipment first.
“We’re sure this new facility will inspire future generations of cyclists, and perhaps even future Olympians or Paralympians, which will be a fantastic legacy for Knowsley and the London 2012 Games.”
