The track has been developed by a partnership of University of York and City of York Council, who have worked together over the past 12 months. The track has been awarded a Class A certificate for a regional centre by UK Athletics.
The track, built at the University’s Heslington West campus, cost £2 million and was funded by both the council and university. The facility includes an 8 lane synthetic running track, a grass infield for field disciplines like javelin, hammer, discus and shot put and other synthetic areas for pole vault, highjump, long and triple jump. In autumn 2015 additional work will start on a new sports pavilion and covered seating for 500 spectators. In the meantime a temporary pavilion and stand are in place for the summer season. These first class facilities now provide York’s athletes the best possible opportunities to improve their sporting performances.
The facility is the new home for City of York Athletic Club and is also available for use by regional schools, local groups and athletes of all abilities.
Ayre to reconsider role as athletics coach
Cllr Nigel Ayre, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism who was at the track for the session said: “The opening of this brand new track will greatly improve athletics facilities in York. It has been made possible through strong local partnership work between the council, the University of York and City of York Athletic Club. I originally brought forward plans to fund and build a top-class athletics track at the University as the Executive Member in July 2010. I am therefore pleased that this vision has now been realised and athletes of all abilities can start to enjoy the new facilities.”
Keith Morris, Head of Sport at University of York said: “The development of the impressive new Athletics facility is the result of strong partnerships across the city. This excellent county standard stadium adds to a growing list of high quality sporting facilities at the University, enhancing opportunities for everyone in York and the region and we look forward to being the home of community athletics.”
Neil Hunter, Chairman of City of York Athletic Club said: “The facilities are fantastic, and great news both for the future of our club and of community athletics in York. Our members range from age 5 upwards and this facility will provide a fantastic opportunity for us to be able to welcome more budding and returning athletes to our new home. We’ll be working very closely with schools to increase participation in athletics and to build on the talent and enthusiasm that is so prevalent throughout the city. I should like to thank all our project partners and the professional sports clubs who helped ensure community athletics in York was safeguarded and hope that we continue to work positively together to improve sport in the City for many years to come.”
The athletics track will be formally opened later this summer and is open to students and the public from Monday 15 June. Anyone interested in joining the club or using the track can contact the club via email atenquiries.coyac@hotmail.co.uk