PLANS for a velodrome and a mountain biking trail on land near Colchester’s community stadium have been unveiled.

Colchester Council wants to turn land north and south of the A12 into a leisure and business park.

The proposals show biking facilities and a new home for Colchester Rugby Club.

David Lloyd Leisure is already poised to build a health club near the stadium.

Anne Turrell, councillor responsible for regeneration, said the council had held talks with various sporting organisations and was open to proposals for the area.

She said: “There is enough space on the other side of the A12 to have the rugby club and other sports facilities.

“We want a fantastic leisure and sporting area for the people of Colchester and people from outside to make it a regional centre.

“We’ve been talking to other sports organisations, but because of the popularity of cycling at the moment, that one seems to be slightly in front.

“But apart from the rugby club, nothing is ruled in or ruled out.”

See Thursday's Gazette for more