Games boss: Make velodrome noise

CYCLING enthusiasts disappointed by the decision not to build a velodrome in Birmingham for the Commonwealth Games have been told by the organising committee chairman to “make a noise”.

Speaking at the announcement of the official venues for the Games, chairman John Crabtree said he was not involved in the decision to host track cycling in London instead of Birmingham.

But he also said that he understood the decision not to build a new facility on financial grounds.

However, Mr Crabtree also believes that people disappointed with the decision should be out lobbying for a different outcome. He added that, if he were in the shoes of a cyclists wanting a new velodrome built, he would be out lobbying for it.

“I wasn’t part of that [the decision not to build a new velodrome],” he said.

“But the common sense of it, with what the council are going to put into this, and obviously what the national taxpayer is going to put into this, is that there’s a limit, as we all know.

“There’s austerity at the moment, and everyone understands that. And we all know that all our services, wherever they are, are under pressure. So if the powers that be think that there’s not sufficient demand to make a velodrome in Birmingham work post games, even if we had the money to build one now and get it up and running in time, then you can understand why that hasn’t happened.

“So I say to the cyclists, make a noise. Lobby. Do what I would do if I was you. Get your lycra on and use social media.

Cycling fans were left disappointed after it was announced track cycling will be held in London.

A campaign is already under way to build a West Midlands velodrome, and has so far gathered over 5,300 signatures. (Athletics and - Arena Birmingham (Gymnastics); - The NEC Arena (Badminton). - National Exhibition Centre (Boxing, Judo, Table Tennis, Weightlifting and Wrestling) - Birmingham University Squash) - Villa Park (Rugby Sevens) - Sandwell Aquatics Centre - Sutton Park ( Triathlon) - Cannock Chase (Mountain Biking) - Coventry Arena (Netball) - Royal Leamington Spa Bowling Club (Lawn Bowls) - Lee Valley VeloPark, London Cycling) (Hockey and (Aquatics) ( Track