WEST Midlands MEP James Carver is the latest politician to urge people to sign a petition calling for an indoor velodrome to be built in the region.

Around 4,800 enthusiasts – including members of Halesowen Athletic and Cycling Club – have already signed the change.org petition calling for modern cycling facilities to be built in time for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in 2022.

Organisers hope to smash the 5,000 target as pressure mounts to create a ‘lasting legacy’ by building a new velodrome, which could cost an estimated £16 million.

Mr Carver said: “What is being asked for is a modest building with a 200m or 250m track and 500 to 800 seats. It would be an ideal training facility for those preparing to race in London’s world class 6,000-seater competition velodrome during the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

“It’s unfair that a region the size of the West Midlands has such poor facilities compared with other parts of the country.

“There are many cycling clubs in the region and a few high-profile champions like Hugh Porter, Jess Varnish and Andy Tennant have been spawned, but it is crucial that cyclists of the future have access to modern indoor facilities, so they can practice throughout the year whatever the weather.”

To sign the petition visit https://bit.ly/2KoJ5XX.

After meeting with Halesowen Athletic and Cycling Club chairman David Viner, the independent Euro MP said there was a convincing case for a velodrome, both in terms of usage and financially.

Mr Viner, who has been campaigning for a modern facility since last July, acknowledged the outdoor banked tracks at his club – while still valued as a grassroots venue – needed the lifeline a modern velodrome would provide.

Mr Carver added: “There is no doubt a velodrome would be well used and attract good revenue, and they are built for multiple sports use – with the track centre suitable for boxing, table tennis, five-a-side football, badminton and judo, for example.

“The Manchester velodrome is the single key reason why Britain is now so well respected on the world cycling stage. I fear we are losing potential champions in the West Midlands because they don’t have the training facilities to reach that level.

“I hope we can put that right and the petition is an excellent way of demonstrating the strength of feeing to add pressure to the sound business case for the building of an indoor velodrome.

“It would be a truly inclusive community and multi- sports facility, encouraging fitness and well-being – what better legacy could we derive from the Commonwealth Games?”