LED lighting transformation makes Geraint Thomas Velodrome shine for elite athletes and local community
An active lifestyle in properly illuminated spaces
The Geraint Thomas Velodrome has undergone a major transformation with a LED lighting makeover, saving thousands and opening world-class facilities for everyone in Newport to enjoy.
Located at Newport International Sports Village, the velodrome has benefited from a £163,805 lighting overhaul, fully funded through the Wales Funding Programme.
The project, completed in 2021, has already delivered impressive results with annual savings of over £25,000 and a significant reduction of 42.35 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year - proving that going green really does pay dividends.
Kevin Holland, chief executive for Salix, captured the essence of the project perfectly during a recent visit: "This is a pretty inspirational place.
We're here to try and help the world climb another mountain.
How will we reduce fuel bills for people and still be able to use these kinds of facilities and how we get people out working in places where they can work out safely in the right lighting.
The transformation began with the track itself, where 52 outdated lights were replaced with state-of-the-art LED systems.
Service manager for Climate Change at Newport City Council Ross Cudlipp, explained how the lighting was “at a very poor standard previously,” but the upgrade has elevated the venue to competition standard.
Ross said that the real success story emerged when the team realised the rest of the building also needed attention to serve the wider community effectively.
What started as a single project evolved into something much more meaningful for locals.
The improved lighting throughout the facility means that after work and school, families can enjoy racquet sports in the centre of the velodrome, whilst primary school children can experience an active lifestyle in properly illuminated spaces.
Programme co-ordinator at Salix Rachael Holliday, highlighted the community impact: "It's made the space a much more useful space for the local community.
“Previously the lighting was not bright enough for big scale sporting events, so the lighting upgrades have meant that this venue is able to host big scale cycling events which then in turn benefits the local community by bringing people to the area.”
The velodrome, named after Wales' cycling hero Geraint Thomas, Tour de France winner, three-time world champion, and double Olympic gold medallist - now truly lives up to its namesake's legacy.
The facility seamlessly accommodates both elite athletes training for international competition and residents looking to stay active and healthy.
Today, the velodrome is home to both elite athletes training for international competitions as well as local people keen to stay active.
This project exemplifies how strategic investment in sustainable technology can create multiple wins: reduced environmental impact, substantial cost savings and enhanced community facilities.
Over three years since completion, the velodrome continues to demonstrate that proper funding and forward-thinking partnerships between Salix, Welsh Government and Newport City Council can deliver lasting benefits for everyone involved.
The changes at the Geraint Thomas Velodrome, which have been hailed a success, demonstrate how the Wales Funding Programme is helping meet decarbonisation goals while keeping high-quality sporting facilities accessible to everyone.
