In the year the greatest cycle race in the world comes to Britain for the first time since 2007, a new Olympic sized outdoor velodrome at the University of York will ensure that the legacy of the Tour de France lives on in Yorkshire and Humberside.

Jointly funded by British Cycling and York University, the £1.1 million facility will open in July.

Inspired by the exploits of Sir Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome, more than two million people are now riding their bikes at least once a week in the UK, so the need for new facilities to accommodate this is greater than ever.

The new facility, built by Lumsden and Carroll, has 30-degree banking at its steepest point at each end, which riders will negotiate on special track bikes with no gears or brakes.

Coaches will lead taster and skills sessions at the facility, offering both experienced riders and those new to the sport, the chance to enjoy the facilities. There will also be opportunities for local schools and community groups to get involved, and weekly coaching sessions for under – 16s run by Clifton Cycling club. Track bikes and equipment will be available for riders to hire.

British Cycling president, Bob Howden, said:
“Following the success of British riders at the Tour de France and Olympics, there are more people than ever riding bikes in this country. However, with increased participation comes the need for new facilities. British Cycling has been delighted to get behind this fantastic project and hopefully we might see the next Joanna Rowsell or Jason Kenny develop at the York Velodrome.

“On a personal note, I and many other fellow Yorkshire volunteers will take particular delight in seeing a long haul for a home track facility finally come to fruition.”

Professor Koen Lamberts, vice-chancellor of the University of York, said:

“In the year the Tour de France comes to York, we are very proud to provide a superb addition to the city’s sports facilities that will complement our floodlit 1.2km closed road cycle circuit. Our partnership with British Cycling to develop this additional facility is a clear demonstration of our commitment to inspire activity and to promote the health and well-being of people across the city and beyond.

For more information about how to get into cycling visit www.britishcycling.org.uk/getinvolved