Designs have been unveiled for Fife’s first purpose-built closed-road cycling circuit.
The Fife Regional Cycling Centre, still subject to planning approval, is proposed on council land between Lochgelly High School and Lochore Meadows to offer clubs, groups and events a top-class facility to develop riders and run community activities.
The circuit at the centre will consist of a looped road with several smaller loops, the largest being 1.6km long.
Organisers say it has been designed to offer customers multiple configurations, with parking, a clubhouse and an on-site bike workshop also in the pipeline, subject to further funding.
Councillor Mark Hood, who sits on Fife Council’s executive committee, believes the project is a fabulous opportunity for the areas and an ideal way to get everyone on bikes.
He said: “This would be a fantastic community asset for Fife that would allow the council to deliver a wide range of cycle activities from toddlers on balance bikes to older people returning to cycling, learning new cycle skills, and confidence builders. In recent months, officers have been working to finalise the plans for the facility and it’s great to see the positive reaction from Fife’s strong cycling community.
“We are committed to meeting the growing demand to develop cycling in Fife and this is a standout example of how we could do just that.
“It’s gaining national attention already and with the nearby Lochore Meadows gaining a reputation for its mountain biking and recreational off-road cycling offerings we’re in a strong position to deliver something really special that compliments it here.”
The Cycling Centre would also be suitable for activities linked to triathlon and other cycling disciplines.
Council officers intend to submit the proposal as a planning application in early 2016 with work beginning later in the year if approved.
Mr Hood added: “It’s really important to emphasise why a focus on the long-term wins of investing in sport, physical activity and sustainable travel, at a time when the council is facing increasingly tough budget pressures, is vital.”