Cardiff velodrome plans set to move forward

An application for a new velodrome in Cardiff which forms part of the proposed next phase of the International Sports Village (ISV) has been recommended for planning approval.Permission is sought for a 333m velodrome together with a clubhouse and stand at a site in Cardiff Bay.The surrounding area comprises Cardiff International Sports Village (ISV), occupied by Cardiff International swimming pool and gym, the Ice Arena Wales and the white-water rafting centre.The application forms part of the council’s plans to develop the ISV, including a central cycling hub which the velodrome forms part of, as well as an off-road bike track and closed road circuit which are not part of current proposal.A significant number of the objections have been lodged relating to the loss of the existing Maindy Velodrome on the basis that opponents feel that the current proposal is a poor substitute for the Maindy site which is being replaced to enable the development of Cathays High School.A consultation on the council’s wider plans closed recently and that will look at objections to the relocation of the velodrome.From a planning perspective, the current proposal has been recommended for approval.According to a report to be scrutinised by councillors next week, the proposed scale, massing and design are considered acceptable in its context and the site can be accessed by various modes of transport.