Scotland's Borders Region Closer to Getting Mountain Biking Innovation Center
The South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) has announced plans for a Mountain Bike Innovation Center in Innerleithen that could create more than 400 jobs in the Borders region over the next decade.
The multi-million pound center will require the razing of a textile mill building that dates 1788–one of Scotland's oldest industrial buildings still standing. Newer buildings had been added to the site over the centuries, and it was last used in 2011 and has been vacant since.
The center will offer design and classroom space for UK and international businesses to create and showcase new mountain biking products in the 'heart of the UK's leading mountain biking destination,' SOSE said. It would also work closely with Edinburgh Napier University, which already has a robust mountain biking program.
'This is another important step forward for the Mountain Bike Innovation Centre project,' said SOSE Chair Russel Griggs, OBE. 'If planning permission is received, the new facility will allow high-value jobs to come to the South of Scotland, maximising the value of mountain biking to the area by getting more products and services designed and made here.'
The SOSE has submitted a planning application for approval, and if green-lighted, the center could be operating on the site by 2027.
Hope to convert the Caerlee Mill into a modern facility evaporated once structural issues and costs were determined to be prohibitive. The building would be demolished and a new center will be built on the grounds once the proposal is approved.
The estimated £19 million ($25.6 million) innovation center will see Scottish, UK and international bike companies develop new mountain bikes and products. Funding is coming from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, a UK government program that supports economic growth and opportunities. £4 million of that total will be used for the Tweed Valley Adventure Bike Park and Trail Lab.
According to the SOSE, the mountain bike innovation center is predicted to create £138 million in gross-value-added revenue and create 400 jobs in the next 10 years. It will also host cycling-related academics and research by Edinburgh Napier University. The university is already active in supporting mountain biking development and health research in the region, and hosts the Mountain Bike Centre Scotland.
The university is currently hiring for a Mountain Bike Innovation Centre consultant role to interact with the region's growing mountain biking economy.
'The new Mountain Bike Innovation Centre will offer a host of opportunities to make a positive difference to the Scottish cycling sector,' said Professor Nazira Karodia, Deputy Vice Chancellor at Edinburgh Napier University. 'We are pleased to see this latest step in its journey. Edinburgh Napier University has a strong track record of cycling research, innovation and collaboration, and this facility will significantly enhance our capability in these areas. We will continue to work closely with partners to help deliver a leading centre.'
This story was originally reported by BikeMag on Jun 11, 2025, where it first appeared.
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