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The final phase of the historic Herne Hill Velodrome’s renovation comes to fruition this month with the announcement of a grand opening date set for March 30th.
The new pavilion marks a successful and emotional end to the third stage of the Save the Velodrome campaign following previous initiatives to rebuild the main track, develop a kids track and implement floodlights – all having the combined impact of doubling track usage numbers since 2012.
Director of property at Sport England Charles Johnston commented: “We are delighted to provide £750,000 of National Lottery funding to help deliver this fantastic pavilion. Already famous for its 450-metre cycle track, the new pavilion will help position the velodrome as a first-class venue ideal for everyone in the local community and beyond, and cater for both keen cyclists as well as those who are new to the sport. We look forward to the next exciting chapter in the story of this 1948 Olympic cycling venue and congratulate all involved.”
Sarah Ridley, who is chief grants officer of The London Marathon Charitable Trust added: “Our grants programmes are aimed at supporting projects that help get people off the couch and participating in a wide range of sports and physical activities.
“We’re delighted to have contributed to one of the country’s most iconic cycling venues. By investing in the new grandstand, we are securing a great centre for people of all ages and abilities to experience the thrill of cycling. It’s very fitting that The Trust has helped this project as part of its income comes from profits generated by Prudential RideLondon – the world’s greatest festival of cycling.”
Chairman of the Herne Hill Velodrome Trust Hillary Peachey concluded: “It has been a long journey, but I am immensely proud of how the community came together, matched by the generosity of our funders, the project team, the local residents.
“The professionalism of my trustees, and dedication of the volunteers and track users, will keep Herne Hill Velodrome a sustainable venue well into the next century. We have generations of families riding around this historic venue which is accessible for all members of the community both young and old; we can now continue this legacy.”
