HEREFORD’S new Mayor has revealed his plan to build a traffic free cycle circuit where future Olympic Champions can be introduced to the sport.

Councillor Jim Kenyon is the man behind a scheme to create a 1.5 kilometre floodlit circuit on the grounds of Hereford Racecourse which could cost around £600,000 and be suitable for all ages and abilities.

However, the designs which were unveiled last week are sure to have fans of other sports scratching their heads and wondering how the site can accommodate them all.

Three options for the circuit have been drawn up and visitors to the public meeting were asked to vote for their preferred option.

“We want to create a street scene where children can turn up and learn to cycle,” said Cllr Kenyon who became the city's Mayor on Monday. “Olympic Champion Laura Trott only started cycling because there was an outside velodrome near to her house. I want to see Hereford have an Olympic cycling champion in 15 years time.”

Hereford City Council has already granted the project money which has allowed consultant Owen Davies to draw-up the three designs.

One of these will be taken forward to the next feasibility stage when an exact cost for the project will be established.

Mr Davies said that previous cycle circuits of a similar nature have cost between £600,000 and £700,000.

British Cycling legislation would mean that the circuit would be at least six metres wide with a two metre run-off on either side.

“This project will make Hereford more memorable,” said Mr Davies.

“I love the sport of cycling, seeing it and watching it on the road.

“The next stage is getting a preferred option and to work out the engineering and infrastructure required. We want to hold regional and national level races on this circuit.”

Activities already taking place within the racecourse site include golf, football, rugby, hockey, athletics and horse racing.

Some of proposed designs unveiled at the meeting would impact on the football pitches and golf course already on the site.

And those attending the meeting raised concerns that some of the proposed cycle tracks would require other racecourse users to cross the circuit while events or practice sessions are taking place.

“We have got to think outside the box as there is a lot already going on to fit in a 1.5 kilometre cycle track as well,” admitted Mr Davies.

“The circuit will have fencing all the way around it and to reduce costs we are going to use the existing structures for parking and changing.

“The relationship with the leisure centre is pivotal as they will make sure the circuit is being swept and looked after.

“But there is no point delivering it if it’s not sustainable.”