History
The track opened as a synthetic 'En-Tout-Cas' on 6 May 1967 and was the first track of its type built in England. The complex formerly also included Leicester's cycle velodrome, however this side of the complex is subject to planning permission for a new housing estate. The velodrome hosted the British National Stayers Championships and the British National Track Championships for several decades before it fell into disrepair due to lack of funds. The venue hosted British and World track cycling and Road Racing championships in August 1970. The cycle track was improved specially for the event which was televised all over the world. Another first meant that sponsors were allowed to buy sections of the track to utilise for advertising purposes. This was also the first time that a public road - the A46 - was closed in the UK to allow the Road Race to take place:- See The Benny Foster Story published by Fretwell 1971.
In 2006 the centre received a £1.4 million facelift coutesy of Leicester City Council. As part of the facelift new state of the art field sports equipment was purchased, a new purpose built changing facility was built and a replacement synthetic track surface was laid. The development also includes facilities for both disabled and able bodied athletes. The complex was officially reopened by Jonathan Edwards in July 2006.
Saffron Lane Athletics Centre holds the Schools' City Athletics each year. The fastest boys and girls from each school go head to head in running and throwing events.
Read more about this topic: Saffron Lane Sports Centre
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