The Saxton Velodrome and Cycle Safety Arena has received a significant funding boost with The Canterbury Community Trust confirming a $100,000 grant.
Work has already started on the $1.6million project, situated at Saxton Stadium, which will see the 333m velodrome facility completed within the next 16 to 20 months.
The project is being funded by Nelson City and Tasman District councils, which are contributing 80 per cent of the total. The Saxton Velodrome Trust is charged with raising the remainder (approximately $320,000).
The Canterbury Community Trust’s Chief Executive Louise Edwards says the Velodrome and cycle Safety Arena is a fantastic project and a great community asset for the Nelson region.
“Our grant of $100,000 is an acknowledgement of the benefit provided to Nelson’s cycling community through the provision of a low maintenance facility. We are very supportive of projects which promote good health outcomes for the community and in this particular case, provide a safe off-road venue for children and adults to enhance their cycling skills.”
Trustee Rob Ford says that the Trust is really pleased with the response it’s had from funders and donors so far and that it is confident of reaching its target.
“The feedback we’re getting from funders is that they see it as a worthwhile community project. We’re having conversations with other funding providers and we’re very confident we will get across the line.However we still need to raise considerable funds so we’re very open to talking to potential donors and anyone who can provide in-kind support during the build process.”
Glenn Thorn, Reserves Officer from Tasman District Council who is overseeing the project says it is progressing well however there have been some delays due to weather conditions. Construction started on-site in June 2015 and drainage, power and water have been installed. Earthworks are expected to resume on site in October 2015.
Although the velodrome will be used for competitive cycling, it will also accommodate a wide range of other uses. It will be a community facility that will be suitable for cyclists of all ages, skills and fitness levels.
It will be ideal for road safety training and events and provide a safe, car-free environment for children to learn to ride, disabled cyclists and for elderly people to stay fit. Sport Tasman will utilise both the velodrome and cycle safety arena in its programmes and the velodrome will be free to use for the general public.
The Trust has set up a give-a-little page on its website www.saxtonvelodrome.com for anyone who wants to make a donation to the project.
