Transformation of Old Mill Site into Mountain Bike Centre
Work is scheduled to commence on the redevelopment of the former Caerlee Mill site in Innerleithen, located in the Borders, into a multi-million pound mountain bike innovation centre.
Initial plans to refurbish the old mill were abandoned due to prohibitive costs, leading to the decision to demolish the structure to facilitate the construction of the new facility.
Construction is set to begin on Monday, with expectations that the project will provide a significant economic uplift and generate over 225 jobs within the next decade.
Partnership and Funding
The initiative is being spearheaded by South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), in collaboration with Edinburgh Napier University and Scottish Borders Council (SBC).
This mountain bike centre represents one of the principal projects within the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.
Signed in 2021, the deal is funded by both the Scottish and UK governments and supports a variety of developments across five council areas spanning the Scotland-England border.
Future Impact and Opening
The Innerleithen site is planned to open next year and will serve as a flagship centre dedicated to research, development, and innovation within the global cycling industry.
Prof Russel Griggs, chair of SOSE, expressed gratitude towards all project partners involved.
"We are determined to deliver a centre which will help transform the economic and social opportunities in the area," he added.
