Palma Revamps the Old Velodrome as a Hub for Nature and Culture

The project will link green areas together in Palma and honour El Tirador, a symbol of heritage

What does it consist of?

Palma City Council has launched plans for landscape restoration and refurbishment work at the old velodrome, El Tirador. Although an important piece of heritage, it has been closed since 1973. A green corridor will connect Sa Riera Park to Canódromo Forest, as part of a city planning strategy that seeks to reduce the urban heat island effect and protect historical architecture.

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Data

PROJECT TITLE IN THE CALL
Redevelopment of the Velodrome Park
LOCATION
Mallorca (Palma de Mallorca)
Entity submitting the PROJECT
Ajuntament de Palma
Entity that executes the project
Ajuntament de Palma
Project code
ITS2019-011
Total project amount
2.017.000 €
ITS granted amount
80.000 €
Executed amount
34.122 €
Call year
2019
Execution status
In execution
Purpose
Cultural heritage
Budget execution
Executed: 42.65%
Last data request
26.02.2026

The project

The project is part of a broader environmental planning approach in Palma, linked to European initiatives such as the "Green Cooling Line" and the design of urban green corridors. With this in mind, the project seeks to mitigate the effects of climate change in the city by planting native plants, installing passive cooling systems and connecting the city’s green spaces.

Work will be carried out on the former El Tirador Velodrome, a 19,360 m² space that had been abandoned since closing in 1973. The project plans to restructure the area, create pedestrian walkways to nearby green spaces, and restore historic structures such as the "Chalé", designed by Gaspar Bennàssar in 1918. This physical integration includes restoring 509 m² of heritage buildings.

El Tirador Velodrome was Spain’s oldest track and one of the main cycling venues for six decades. Between 1903 and 1973, it hosted major national competitions. These works will preserve its heritage while adapting it to the city’s current environmental needs.

The project has a total budget of just over €2 million, with €80,000 funded by sustainable tourism tax. Although work has not yet begun, administrative procedures are already underway, and it remains on hold pending final implementation. The action is part of the council’s efforts towards integrating the urban landscape, promoting environmental sustainability and honouring the city’s history.