Velodrome upgrade plans pick up speed
THE Warwick Velodrome is in line to receive an upgrade worth more than $200,000, though a new council submission suggests cyclists might need to share it with roller skaters.
A $219,538 cash injection from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program would allow the track to be resealed and lighting system overhauled, as part of the larger $1.5m grant.
Southern Downs councillors voted unanimously in favour of the project, which now needs approval from the Department of Infrastructure to go ahead.
Councillor Sheryl Windle advocated for the project, citing benefits for both Warwick cyclists and the wider community.
“This is something we’ve been talking about for quite some time now, and I’m happy to see it progress to the next step,” Cr Windle said.
“The velodrome is used quite a lot, and by a lot more people than some of us realise.
Warwick resident Tabitha McDonnell-Partington submitted a separate request to the council for a new skating rink, to show support for the “worldwide roller-skating revival”.
Her letter suggested using existing facilities at WIRAC or “underused” sports courts, or otherwise repurposing an abandoned building.
Councillor Jo McNally said it was unlikely the SDRC would consider a new purpose-built area, though the refurbished velodrome could become home to cyclists and skaters.
“To me, (the velodrome) would seem an ideal place to use as a skate rink, and perhaps if there’s enough interest from the community we could set up days for them to use it,” Cr McNally said.
Her submissions were supported by most other councillors, including Cynthia McDonald.