(© Tom Van Acker – dbv architecten)
Edited by Ron Bernthal
After an intense five-year planning and construction period, a new Wielerdroom (cycling track in the Belgium town of Heusden-Zolder, in Limburg province, was officially inaugurated in October, 2023. The intention of the local public officials and residents in Heusden-Zolder, about one-hour driving time east of Brussels, to host a European championship in the near future. The year 2030 has been mentioned as a possibility since that is when Belgium will celebrate its 200th anniversary, and even a World Championship is being considered for the new cycling track.
(© Tom Van Acker – dbv architecten)
The new sports complex was built on the former race track in Heusden-Zolder, and contains an 820-foot indoor cycling track with and other sports’ fields. The total seating for the new facility will include 1,000 fixed seating and 1,000 removable seats as needed. The building houses a gymnasium, an exercise facility, a medical center for the Zolder racecourse, a spacious cafeteria with terrace, meeting rooms and offices. The facility was designed by the Antwerp-based B-architecten.
(© Tom Van Acker – dbv architecten)
Furthermore, there are practical facilities as well, including changing rooms, storage and parking. The indoor cycling track is the second UCI-approved cycling track built in Flanders. The first one, the Flemish Cycling Centre Eddy Merckx in Ghent, was also designed by B-architecten.
The sports infrastructure is of the highest level: the biggest international competitions can take place at the venue, and more than one international team can train there at the same time. In addition, young athletes can be coached there in more than one sport.
The design unites many sports under one roof, ensuring that the venue can operate as an efficient and integrated sports complex. It also encourages social contact between the different sports groups and spectators. The walkways will ensure smooth and logical movement throughout the building. The architectural design is inspired by the dynamics of track cycling with a pure, elegant and natural look.
