TRADA has kicked off Velocity in British Timber – the National Student Design Competition – which asks students to design a park and cycle "super hub" for up to 1,000 cycles in Sheffield, as well as smaller satellite hubs for up to 50 cycles in strategic locations around the city.
TRADA has specified that British timber species and products must be used in the building design, which should be adventurous and creative, celebrating British timber in the city, which already boasts the spectacular Winter Garden featuring huge glulam arched beams.
Designer Wayne Hemingway and Julian Huppert MP, co-chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Cycle Group, will be on the judging panel, along with leading timber designers.
The design will include ancillary facilities, including a cycle retail/workshop space, changing facilities for cyclists and community groups, multi-use community space for events and training, as well as a cafe.
Elizabeth Turner, TRADA’s university liaison manager, said the project was a perfect showcase for both cycling and timber.
"This competition is perfectly timed," she said. "The success of our national cycling sports teams at the London 2012 Olympics and recent Tour de France competitions is inspiring more and more people to get on their bikes."
The entry deadline of June 6 will be followed by a shortlist and final judging in early July. An awards ceremony will be held in September.
