Beneath this roof, legends are made. Welcome to the National Indoor BMX Arena. It is more than just a stadium. It is a crucible where passion meets skill. It is where gravity-defying feats become reality.
Opened in August 2011, the National Indoor BMX Arena stands as the UK’s largest BMX arena. It is the second-largest purpose-built BMX stadium on the planet. Imagine the roar of the crowd. Picture the adrenaline as riders launch from the starting gate.
Designed by Ellis Williams Architects, this arena cost £24 million to construct. Sir Robert McAlpine served as the contractor. The National Indoor BMX Arena is next to the Manchester Velodrome. Both share a common entrance. They form part of the National Cycling Centre.
Inside the National Indoor BMX Arena, the air crackles with anticipation. Two thousand seats await spectators eager to witness BMX mastery. The arena boasts a fully enclosed 70x100m BMX racing track. It replicates the London 2012 Olympic track.
The amateur track meets international standards. It features a five-meter start hill. Jump configurations offer challenges for every rider. The elite track holds a unique distinction. It has the UK’s only eight-meter start hill. This leads into a technically diverse layout.
The National Indoor BMX Arena is home to British Cycling’s BMX program. It has nurtured world champions like Shanaze Reade and Liam Phillips. Olympic champions Bethany Shriever and Charlotte Worthington also trained here.
But the arena is not just for elite athletes. It serves as a vibrant community hub. Young people with Olympic dreams hone their skills here. The National Indoor BMX Arena builds on the legacy of the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Manchester City Council, Sport England, and the European Regional Development Fund funded the center. The arena has allowed Manchester to host international BMX events. It has also provided British Cycling Federation with new offices for 200 staff.
Plasmor products were used in the construction. Approximately 7,000m² of 100mm and 140mm Stranlite Paint Grade blocks were used. These blocks ensure the building is robust and durable.
The National Indoor BMX Arena stands as a testament to Manchester’s commitment to cycling. It is a world-class facility for both the community and elite athletes. As you stand here, feel the energy and imagine the champions who have graced this track. This is where dreams take flight.