Velodrome (London)

Velodrome (London). The London Velodrome, officially known for sponsorship reasons as the Lee Valley VeloPark, is a world-class indoor cycling arena located within the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford. It was constructed as a primary venue for the 2012 Summer Olympics and 2012 Summer Paralympics, hosting the track cycling events. Renowned for its innovative and sustainable design, the venue has since become a permanent legacy facility, serving as a hub for elite competition, community sport, and talent development in British Cycling.

History

The decision to build a new velodrome was a key part of London's successful bid for the 2012 Summer Olympics, with the goal of creating a lasting sporting legacy for the United Kingdom. Following the awarding of the Games to London by the International Olympic Committee, planning and funding were secured, with the Olympic Delivery Authority overseeing the project. The velodrome was the first permanent Olympic Park venue to be completed, opening in February 2011 for a test event, the UCI Track Cycling World Cup. Its post-Games ownership was transferred to the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, which reopened it in 2014 as part of the integrated Lee Valley VeloPark, incorporating the adjacent BMX track and road cycling circuit.

Design and construction

The velodrome's distinctive design was conceived by Hopkins Architects, with structural engineering by Expedition Engineering. Its form was inspired by the geometry of cycling itself, resulting in a lightweight, efficient double-curved roof that resembles a Pringles chip. The roof structure, built with a western red cedar exterior and a Dutch-manufactured PVC membrane, significantly reduces the building's overall weight and material use. The 250-metre track was crafted from sustainably sourced Siberian pine by specialists from Germany. Key sustainable features, integral to the project's BREEAM "Excellent" rating, include natural ventilation, rainwater harvesting, and extensive use of natural light, minimizing energy consumption.

Major events and usage

The velodrome's primary role was hosting the Olympic and Paralympic track cycling competitions in 2012, where Team GB enjoyed tremendous success, winning multiple gold medals including those for Sir Chris Hoy and Laura Kenny. It has since become the regular home for the UCI Track Cycling World Cup London event and hosted the 2016 UCI Track Cycling World Championships. The venue is also the training base for the Great Britain cycling team. Beyond elite sport, it operates as a public facility, allowing community access to the track and hosting events like the Revolution Series. The integrated VeloPark also stages major BMX Supercross World Cup events on its adjacent outdoor track.

Legacy and impact

The velodrome is widely regarded as one of the most successful legacy venues of the 2012 Summer Olympics. Its design and operational model have set a new benchmark for sustainable sports architecture, influencing subsequent projects globally. The facility has played a crucial role in sustaining Britain's dominance in track cycling, providing a world-class training and competition environment that has nurtured champions like Jason Kenny and Elinor Barker. Economically, it has boosted sports tourism in East London and remains a central feature of the regenerated Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Its public access programs have significantly increased participation in cycling across London and the wider region.

See also

* Olympic Stadium (London) * Aquatics Centre (London) * Lee Valley White Water Centre * Manchester Velodrome * UCI Track Cycling World Championships * British Cycling Category:2012 Summer Olympic venues Category:Velodromes in England Category:Buildings and structures in the London Borough of Newham