Application location. click to enlarge

A planning application has now been made to provide an athletics track and closed road racing cycle circuit with ancillary parking, lighting and fencing, and including re-routing of public right of way on the part of the University Campus lying between Field Lane and Low Lane, the A64 and Hull Road York. The scheme will form part of the recently opened Sports Village complex and is intended to replace the athletics track at the Huntington stadium. The facilities would be delivered as a joint venture between the University of York, City of York Council and British Cycling and form part of the “Community Stadium” project which was agreed in 2010.

The new athletics track will have 8 lanes rather than the current 6 and will have long jump pits outside the track, which will allow throwing events to take place at the same time as jumps. The cycling track will allow off road cycling for beginners, disabled participants and competition. It has the backing of local cycling clubs and accessible bike providers. A track in this region has been identified as a priority in British Cycling’s facilities development plan.

A combined grandstand and pavilion building would be provided but is not included in the current planning application. Whilst the design and specification have yet to be agreed the pavilion is expected to be single-storey and provide a reception, changing rooms, toilets, showers and a multi-function room. The pavilion would also provide facilities for the closed road racing circuit, including a cycle store, workshop and use of the showers, toilets and multi-function room. The grandstand would be provided alongside the pavilion, facing the athletics track.

Officials are recommending approval of the application. Details can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/York-Athletics-Sept-2012