1. Case Studies

Lee Valley Velopark

Cyclists race on the wooden track of the Lee Valley VeloPark, housed in a modern, curved-roof velodrome. The brightly colored banners and spacious seating areas create a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere.
Client
Lee Valley Regional Park Authority
Project location
London, United Kingdom
Project date
2022
The interior of a modern velodrome with a curved wooden ceiling and spacious seating areas overlooking the cycling track. Glass railings and bright natural light from large windows enhance the open and contemporary design.

Smart Lighting Upgrade for Lee Valley VeloPark

Lee Valley VeloPark, originally built for the 2012 Olympic Games, needed a modern lighting solution to improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance lighting control. Working with BDP Lighting, Elcom, and Zumtobel, Thorn delivered a cutting-edge system ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The new lighting had to meet the highest sporting standards while also accommodating exhibitions, conferences, and private events.

Solutions

The interior of a modern velodrome featuring a spacious walkway with glass partitions, colorful wall panels, and seating areas above. A person walks past under bright ceiling lights, adding to the vibrant and open atmosphere.

Precision Sports Lighting with Energy Savings

The outdated 371 metal halide luminaires were replaced with 276 Thorn Altis and Zumtobel CRAFT II Performance LED luminaires, reducing energy consumption by 50%—from 368 kW to 185 kW. The new system features DMX and DALI controls, allowing precise light adjustments for competitions, training, and broadcasting. These flicker-free luminaires meet international sports standards, ensuring optimal visibility for athletes, spectators, and TV cameras.
The interior of a modern velodrome with a curved wooden ceiling, glass partitions, and rows of seating overlooking the cycling track. Bright lighting and colorful wall panels create an open and inviting atmosphere.

Long-Term Benefits & Cost Savings

In addition to the track lighting upgrade, Thorn Cetus 3 downlights were installed in concourse areas, stairways, and bathrooms, reducing energy load by 50% and eliminating frequent lamp changes. Over ten years, the project is expected to save £100k in energy and maintenance costs. As a result, Lee Valley VeloPark remains a world-class venue, providing top-tier lighting for elite cycling competitions and multipurpose events.
The interior of a modern velodrome with a curved wooden ceiling, glass partitions, and rows of seating overlooking the cycling track. Bright lighting and colorful wall panels create an open and inviting atmosphere.

"Compared to the previous system, the new scheme delivers a much-improved quality of light, less glare, DMX dimming, eliminates lamp changes, and has reduced electrical load by 50%. Overall, it has been a successful upgrade, ensuring Lee Valley VeloPark remains a premier venue hosting cycling competitions at the highest level."
Luke Smith-Wightman, Design Consultant

Project Gallery

DOWNLOADS

Velodrome Lighting Technical Guide (IT)
4.53 MB
Velodrome Lighting Technical Guide (EN)
4.53 MB

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