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THERE’S buzz building around Tamworth’s multi-million dollar sporting centre once again with significant work imminent. Tamworth Regional Council will award the tender for the cycling and athletics tracks in a closed meeting on Tuesday night. While there has been some delay in getting to this point, local sporting clubs are confident the minor delay will pay off in spades. READ MORE: Tamworth Cycle Club president Min McDonald said the $5.35 million riding facilities would serve a broader range of the community and a safer environment for cyclists of all abilities. The criterium track will keep cyclists off the roads for their regular Sunday meets, while the velodrome will be set at an easier level compared the old Peel Street facility. “We understand that dates for construction will continue to flex when it comes to finding a suitable contractor, weather and other factors,” Ms McDonald said. “We’re supportive council’s taken the approach it has to make sure the job is done well. “If it takes an extra month or two, it’ll pay off in the long term in spades.” Sign up to receive The Leader’s breaking news and top stories straight to your inbox The athletics centre comes with a $4.98 million price tag and local coordinators believe they’ll be able to bring a major event to town in the first 12 months after construction. Regional Little Athletics coordinator Adam Joliffe said an event like the NSW country championships or state multi-event would bring more than 1000 athletes to town. While it could reel in a wider economic windfall for the city, Mr Joliffe said it would greatly benefit the sport as well. “Dubbo installed a synthetic track four or five years ago and they had 150 members, they’ve got nearly 400 now,” he said. “We’re working with council to make sure it’s priced accordingly so it’ll be usable.” In July, a project report said council was targeting “the start of construction for the new cycling and athletics facilities in September this year.” The new equine facilities have been in use for some time, while work is continuing on the sports dome extension. The Australian government is provided $8.5 million, along with $4.45 million from council and $4.25 million from the NSW government, toward delivery of the project. Have your say. Click this link to send a letter to the editor

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