£19m Mountain Bike Innovation Centre Approved in Scottish Borders

Plans have been approved for a £19 million Mountain Bike Innovation Centre in Innerleithen, Scottish Borders, with demolition of the existing Caerlee Mill scheduled to begin soon and construction set to start in March 2026. The new building, slated to open in 2027, will feature bike engineering workshops, events spaces, offices, and meeting rooms, aiming to foster innovation in mountain biking products and services while supporting both local and international businesses. Funded by the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), Scottish Borders Council, and Edinburgh Napier University, the project is expected to generate over 400 jobs and contribute approximately £138 million in gross value added to the region over the next decade. Previous plans to convert the historic Caerlee Mill were abandoned due to severe structural issues and rising costs, leading to the decision to build a new facility on the site. The project also includes funding for the Tweed Valley Adventure Bike Park and Trail Lab, enhancing the area’s reputation as a leading mountain biking destination in the UK. Key stakeholders have expressed gratitude for community support and emphasized the centre's role in maximizing mountain biking’s economic and innovation potential in the South of Scotland.