Tuesday February 24th 2026
Bike Innovation Centre
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A major milestone has been reached for a global biking hub in the Borders after funding of £15.5m was confirmed.
The Borderlands Partnership Board has approved the UK Government investment through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal for the development of a Mountain Bike Innovation Centre and Trail Lab at the former Caerlee Mill in Innerleithen
Construction on the main building is now set to begin this spring and its opening is expected for 2027.
Plans to refurbish Caerlee Mill were ultimately abandoned as the costs were too great and it has been demolished instead to make way for the new centre.
It is hoped the project can deliver a multi-million pound boost and more than 225 jobs in southern Scotland over the next 10 years.
It is being led by South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) in partnership with Edinburgh Napier University and Scottish Borders Council (SBC).
Councillor Euan Jardine, leader of Scottish Borders Council and Borderlands Partnership Board member, said: “The Mountain Bike Innovation Centre is a great example of how the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal is translating investment into long term economic impact.
“Through the deal’s funding, we are looking not only to create a global hub for innovation, research and enterprise rooted in the Borders, but also help to attract talent, support new businesses and grow skilled jobs.
“This development, alongside our events strategy and commitment to bringing world-class events to the area, will further reinforce the region’s reputation as a world-leading destination for mountain biking.”
UK Government Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill said: “It’s great news that main construction works can now get underway on the Innerleithen Mountain Bike Innovation Centre.
“Opening for business in 2027, the full project – backed by £19 million UK Government funding – is bringing jobs and investment to the region and will attract riders from across the country and beyond to a world class facility.”
Russel Griggs, chair of South of Scotland Enterprise, said: “This approval allows us to kick-start the build of the new Mountain Bike Innovation Centre.
“The centre will be a flagship for research, development and innovation, and transform the economic and social opportunities in the area.
“Work will begin at pace with partners to make sure the centre can provide the solutions and services the industry and region want.”
Tweet Share on Facebook
News
