£5m blueprint to secure future of London's historic velodrome

The designer of the 2012 Olympic velodrome has drawn up a £5 million blueprint which could secure the future of a historic south London cycling venue.

Herne Hill velodrome, built in 1892 near Dulwich, hosted cycling events at the 1908 and 1948 Olympics and is the UK's oldest cycle track.

But campaigners say the outdoor venue is now dilapidated, with a dangerous grandstand and urgent resurfacing of the 450-metre track needed.

Hopkins Architects created a scheme to resurrect it for the Save the Herne Hill velodrome campaign, working free of charge.

Senior partner Mike Taylor said Herne Hill, which unlike the new venue in Stratford is suitable for beginners, could be a "feeder" facility for its neighbour, helping to re-establish London as an important destination for track cycling.

Hopkins's concept includes a new pavilion with a café, gym, changing rooms, a children's track and a family circuit.

Herne Hill was where three-time Olympic gold medallist Bradley Wiggins began his career aged 12.

Campaign leader Hillary Peachey warned the track could close for good unless it is resurfaced soon. She said: "I need more corporate organisations to come on board."