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University of York

York looks to inspire next generation of cyclists

Posted on 25 September 2025

The University of York is working with British Cycling to create a learn to ride space on campus - helping to inspire the next generation of cyclists.

The new learn to ride facilities will include cycling opportunities for all ages

The proposed facility will be situated at the former velodrome at York Sport Village on Campus East, which has also been identified as the preferred site for the University’s geothermal project.

British Cycling fully supports the transition to a learn to ride space, which will create a lasting sporting legacy for the local community and builds on the University’s commitment to getting young people active and engaged in sport.

The University has been working closely with British Cycling for some time in support of its nationwide review of outdoor velodromes which has identified a number of challenges to outdoor track use across the country.

These include issues around maintaining the specialist facilities and their surfaces, restrictive use due to poor weather conditions as well as challenges in finding enough specialist coaches.

Local clubs

York’s velodrome has not been in use for more than a year due to a deteriorating track surface and was increasingly underused in recent years.

The new learn to ride facilities will seek to maintain and enhance opportunities for nursery age to adult age cyclists and will feature a strong sustainable element.

Head of Sport at York, Keith Morris, said: “Cycling opportunities are already well established at York Sport Village and this will continue at the learn to ride facility through local cycle clubs and disability cycling groups.

“We believe the new facility will increase cycling activity on campus and will create a sporting legacy in support of British Cycling and Sport England aims.’’

Geothermal project

National Facilities Development Manager at British Cycling, Manus Twomey, said: “We want to make cycling facilities accessible, viable, and safe for everyone, and so after discussions with the York team, we  believe this is the best and most sustainable way forward to create this environment and promote participation in the joy of cycling, from beginner through to club riding.’’ 

The University’s geothermal project aims to cut fossil fuel use across Campus and spearhead the City's Net Zero ambitions.

The project, backed by £35 million in funding from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, will harness the earth's natural heat to decarbonise the campus, while also providing invaluable research and educational opportunities.

The former velodrome site has been identified as the preferred site for the project as it is away from local residents and student areas and is an area of significant geothermal potential.

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