BIKE NEWS
INNERLEITHEN MECHANICAL BIKE UPLIFT
AimUp – Uplift for Innerleithen gains planning approval.
Good news from Innerleithen as AimUp gains planning approval for an uplift facility. We caught up with AimUp’s Ian Campbell to get the down low on the uplift
The AimUp proposal
A short but important update on the progress of the uplift project in Innerleithen. Today Scottish Borders Council Planning Committee confirmed approval for the Planning in Principle application for the uplift at Innerleithen. This is obviously great news for the project, Innerleithen & we believe the Scottish Borders. With planning approval, we have something tangible to progress discussions with potential funders. We are also hopeful that the decision on our NFLS application to lease forest estate land will be made before the end of the year.
The type of uplift we’ve now got planning permission for is a low level rail based system. So not a typical chairlift style, more like a small carriage that quickly transports folks, and their bikes, to the top of the hill. In addition, we’re planning to build a toboggan type attraction, something anyone can ride & enjoy the fun & thrills of a descent through the forest.
Incorporated in our plans are the development of additional biking & walking trails in the forest. For biking these will include graded XC & DH type trails.
The development includes cafe & changing areas, and a viewing platform at the top.
Our own website gives more information on the proposal http://www.aimup.org.uk
GLASGOW VELODROME
The Emirates Arena and adjoining Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in the East End of Glasgow form one of the most versatile and innovative structures of its type in Europe. These state-of-the-art facilities, owned by Glasgow City Council, are located in Dalmarnock alongside the Athletes’ Village. Opened in October 2012, this joint venue will become a superb legacy for Scotland, aiding the development of the next generation of elite Scottish athletes and providing first class facilities for the community.
The Emirates Arena
In terms of sheer engineering innovation, the Emirates Arena is unparalleled in Scotland and one of the largest facilities of its kind in Europe. Seating 5,000 spectators, the Arena has a 200-metre athletics track with hydraulic bends allowing its conversion into a flexible multi-sport Arena. The large sports hall can accommodate 12 badminton courts or be subdivided into three separate areas for a range of sports. The complex also includes dance and fitness studios, external multi-court areas, media, event control and hospitality suites, and offices for Glasgow Life Sports Development staff, governing bodies of sport and other sports organisations.
Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome
Scotland has an outstanding record in international track cycling competition, winning six medals in the 2006 Commonwealth Games and three in the 2010 Games. The ambitious design and quality of the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome will celebrate this success.
The Velodrome is named in honour of Scotland’s most successful Gold-medal winning Olympian and Commonwealth Games champion. Its 250-metre track has been designed by Ralph Schuermann, one of the world’s foremost track designers. With a permanent viewing capacity of 2,500 and an additional 2,000 temporary seats for Glasgow 2014, it will be able to attract some of the world’s top cycling events to Glasgow.
