Image: FaulknerBrowns Architects designed the arena

Multi-million pound plans to build a new velodrome and sports centre near Derby's Pride Park Stadium have been given the green light by the Environmental Agency.

In a statement, the organisation said it was satisfied with the plans to build the centre on a former landfill site. The approval clears the final hurdle for the £28m facility, which will include a 250m cycling track.

A 1.5km (0.9-mile) outdoor closed cycle trail, a sports infield accommodating 12 badminton courts and hospitality facilities will also form part of the new building.

Members of Derby City Council's (DCC) cabinet previously approved the appointment of Bowmer and Kirkland as the preferred contractor for the scheme, with Morgan Sindall named as reserve contractor.

The Derbyshire-based firm held off competition from four rival bidders for the contract, which included BAM, Galliford Try and Interserve.

Designed by FaulknerBrowns Architects, the 14,500sq m (156,077sq ft) multi-sport arena received planning permission earlier this year.

The new arena is to be built on the site of an existing park and ride facility and it is due for completion in early 2014. It also forms part of the city's wider Leisure Strategy.

Click here for more information about Derby's Leisure Strategy - including the multi-sports arena.