Sam Willoughby BMX Facility close to construction as first designs released for track
The first plans for a multimillion-dollar international standard BMX facility in O’Halloran Hill – named after dual Olympian Sam Willoughby – have been revealed. SEE THE PHOTOS.
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The first plans for a $5.8 million BMX centre in O’Halloran Hill named after dual Olympian Sam Willoughby have been revealed.
The Sam Willoughby BMX Facility will include an international standard BMX track, a clubroom along with 5m and 8m start hills.
A pump track and commentators box will be added as part of a second stage of construction.
Since 2016, Marion Councils has been working with Onkaparinga Council and the State Government to establish the Majors Road facility.
Named in honour of BMX star Willoughby, who represented Australia at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, the track will be equipped to host large scale competitions such as state championships and BMX Supercross World Cups.
The new facility will also become home to its world champion namesake’s former clubs – The Cove BMX and Happy Valley BMX Club.
A report by Masterplan for Marion Council said the facility was the first of its kind in the area.
“The facility will represent a premier BMX facility within the state and nationally and will provide a dramatic social benefit of fostering interest and local talent in the sport of BMX racing,” the report said.
The project was hit by substantial delays and cost increase after it was discovered 3m deep clay would need to be removed to from the site.
An additional $2.3 million in funding from the State Government and Marion Council saved the project from being shelved.
Construction is set to begin in November and the facility planned to open in late 2021.
The plans for the facility are out for public consultation at Marion Council until October 7.