The cable-net roof of the Velodrome will form the distinctive double-curved shape of the venue.

More than 1,000 exposed timber panels have now been lifted into place to sit on top of the cable-net structure, helping cover the roof and form the timber ceiling of the venue.

The completion of the roof covering makes the Velodrome building weather-tight and allows work to continue inside the venue in preparation for the cycling track to be installed in the autumn.

Work is also now underway to install the venue lighting and public address systems, handrails and balustrades and other internal finishes.
 
David Higgins, the chief executive of the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), said: "The Velodrome will be a key focal point in the north of the Olympic Park, delivering first-class cycling facilities for the Games and a new generation of cyclists.

"Having the Velodrome timber ceiling in place is another glimpse of the striking design and attention to detail that have gone into delivering this highly sustainable venue.

"With the roof now covered, work inside the venue is well underway and the Velodrome is firmly on track to be the first Olympic Park venue to be completed early next year."

Construction work started on the Velodrome in March 2009.

The distinct double-curved cable-net roof has been designed to reflect the geometry of the cycling track, and features 16 kilometres of cabling and 1,000 exposed timber panels, covering an area of 13,500m2.

The Velodrome is one of the most sustainable venues in the Olympic Park and the lightweight roof weighs roughly half that of any other covered Velodrome, helping create a highly-efficient building.

Sebastian Coe, the chairman of London 2012, said: "This major step in the construction of the Velodrome once again shows the benefits of the Olympic and Paralympic Games coming to London .

"In just over two years time the best athletes in the world will come to the UK for the greatest sporting event in the world. 

"We hope that the Velodrome’s striking design will be host to some outstanding British cycling performances, as well as leaving a first rate sporting legacy after the Games."

After the Games, a road cycle circuit and mountain bike course will be added to the Velodrome and BMX circuit to create a legacy VeloPark that will combine cycling facilities across all disciplines in one cycling hub.

London Mayor Boris Johnson, said: "Boasting one of the fastest cycling tracks in the world and an eye-popping 360 degree view of the action for the spectators, the Velodrome is set to be one of the jewels in the crown of the Olympic Park.

"Post Games-time it will contribute greatly to the capital’s sporting legacy, providing a unique facility that will serve a new generation of cycling enthusiasts."

The legacy VeloPark will be owned and managed by Lee Valley Regional Park Authority (LVRPA). 

Shaun Dawson, the chief executive of PVRPA, said: "It’s incredibly exciting to witness this stunning venue take shape.

"While work has been racing ahead on site we’ve been working closely with British Cycling, our partners and host Boroughs to develop the legacy programme.

"After the Games we’ll make sure this first rate centre is truly world class, welcoming cyclists of all levels and disciplines to train, race or simply cycle for fun all year round."


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