Work begins on indoor BMX track in Manchester

Work has now begun in Beswick, east Manchester, on the world's first ever purpose-built indoor BMX track.

The new £24 million centre (to be completed in 2011), along with the existing Manchester Velodrome, and improved public spaces, will form the National Cycling Centre. It will also comprise a 2,000-seater BMX area and offices for British Cycling's headquarters.

British Cycling and Manchester City Council, in partnership with New East Manchester, are working in partnership to create the 110,000 sq foot National Indoor BMX Centre at Sportcity, part of a regeneration drive in the east of the city.  

"Having the National Indoor BMX Centre in east Manchester, right on my doorstep, is fantastic," commented Shanaze Reade who was on hand at the ceremony celebrating the start of building work.

"I can't wait to train here to try and get a gold medal at London 2012. I also really hope it encourages more local kids to take up the sport".

An additional £5 million has also been set aside to create new cycle-ways and footpaths - and other public spaces - linking the new and existing developments.

Ian Drake, British Cycling's Chief Executive, said: "Today brings us a step closer to the completion of the BMX centre which will be a fantastic training and competition facility for British Cycling and aid the GB Cycling Team's preparations for London 2012.

"As a community facility, the centre will also offer local young people and adults an opportunity to train alongside British BMX stars, inspiring future generations of riders and growing the discipline at the grass roots.

"We also look forward to the opening of a new purpose-built British Cycling office when the project is complete in 2011".

Shanaze Read at the ceremony for the start of building work in Manchester