Derby Arena: Special events planned for opening

Derby City Council said the arena would help put Derby on the map

Derby Arena is to hold a series of special events after it opens to the public in March, council bosses said.

The £28m venue, built to host high-level cycling events, as well as other sports, including basketball, will officially open on 20 March.

The 5,000-seat arena will also double as a concert venue and feature a 12-court sports hall.

A council spokeswoman said a 30-day showcase would "unwrap" the arena to the public.

Councillor Alison Martin, cabinet member for leisure and culture, said: "We're offering a brilliant opportunity to see the arena in all its glory, try first-hand what it has to offer."

Demonstrations of the facilities will take place during the 30-day period.

The arena, which was originally due to open in December, has been funded by Sport England and the Labour-controlled Derby City Council.

The authority said the delay in opening was down to "getting things right".

Bikes with one gear and no brakes will hurtle around the 250m, 42-degree track at the velodrome, which is the first of its kind in the East Midlands