British Cycling have released the first artist's impressions of their new Manchester headquarters and National Indoor BMX Centre, which are due to be completed in time for the 2012 Olympic Games.
The complex will be built next to the Manchester Velodrome, with the British Cycling HQ linking the two sports venues to form the National Cycling Centre.
The BMX centre will be the world's first purpose-built indoor BMX track, with seating for 2,000 spectators. As well as elite athletes, it will be open to local schools and clubs. Subject to funding and planning approval, work on the scheme will start at the beginning of next year.
British Cycling are moving most of their operations out of the velodrome to a nearby business park for 18 months while the building works gets underway. This will give the GB Cycling Team the space they need to prepare for the London Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Ian Drake, CEO at British Cycling, said: “This temporary move will enable the GB Cycling Team to expand within the Manchester Velodrome and take full advantage of this superb training facility, aiding athlete preparations for London 2012... [It] will enable us to meet the needs of our staff and ensure that we can operate effectively until our new offices are built at the heart of the National Cycling Centre.
“The National Indoor BMX Centre is yet another ambitious project that will help assert Britain as the number one cycling nation in the world. Its development will be possible thanks to the exceptional support of our partners – Manchester City Council, New East Manchester and Sport England – who share our vision to turn Britain into a cycling nation.”
There will be no change of address for British Cycling, as all post will be redirected and all phone numbers will remain the same. For more information, visit www.britishcycling.org.uk.
