A planning application has been launched for the £13 million build of a new Mountain Bike Innovation Centre in Innerleithen.
To be funded by the UK Government as part of the Borderlands inclusive growth deal, the plans for the Scottish Borders site are being led by South of Scotland Enterprise.
The organisation said the facility will allow Scottish, UK, and international companies to develop new products and services, as well as train and test athletes within the mountain biking and cycling sector.
Furthermore, it will also host academics and research by Edinburgh Napier University across the cycling sector, whilst also acting as a place for businesses to showcase their products.
The planning application proposes to locate the centre at the former Caerlee Mill, with the historic building being repurposed in what South of Scottish Enterprise said will provide a ‘range of opportunities’ for the local community and businesses in the area. It added that the facility is predicted to contribute £141 million in gross value added and create over 400 jobs in the south of Scotland over ten years.
UK Government minister for Scotland, Iain Stewart, said, “The creation of the Mountain Bike Innovation Centre is really gathering momentum which will accelerate investment in businesses related to the sport and provide a big boost to the region’s communities.
“Even better, the project is also preserving and regenerating the important historic site of Innerleithen’s Caerlee Mill. The UK Government is investing £19 million in the growth of mountain biking as part of our £265 million support for the Borderlands inclusive growth deal.”
