£15.5 million boost for 'flagship' bike hub

A new mountain bike innovation hub in the Scottish Borders has been handed a significant funding boost to accelerate regional development.

Plans for a Mountain Bike Innovation Centre and Trail Lab in Innerleithen have secured £15.5 million from the UK Government through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal. 

Construction of the main building is due to begin in spring 2026, with completion targeted for 2027.

The project, led by South of Scotland Enterprise in partnership with Edinburgh Napier University and Scottish Borders Council, will include engineering workshops, lab space, offices and teaching facilities to support cycling businesses.

Officials say the centre is projected to generate £86 million in gross value added and create more than 225 jobs over ten years, strengthening the region’s innovation and skills base.

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 added: “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.

“Part of our £65 million contribution to Scottish projects in the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, this is the UK Government working with local partners to deliver a decade of national renewal across Scotland.”

Russel Griggs, chair of South of Scotland Enterprise, added: “This approval allows us to kickstart 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.”

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