But Martin, also chair of the CGG Evaluation Commission that will visit the South African city next month, has claimed that an existing velodrome in Johannesburg, 600 kilometres to the northwest of Durban, could be considered.

"There is a cycling velodrome in Johannesburg so it's a possibility," the Scot told insidethegames.

"Whether it's feasible or not, we have no idea and will have to evaluate that."

Track cycling was a major part of the success of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games in the purpose-built Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome ©Getty Images



Durban is the only city bidding for the 2022 Games following the surprise withdrawal of Edmonton last month due to the worldwide fall in oil prices.

A final decision is due to be made at the CGF General Assembly in Auckland on September 2, where it is expected that Durban will become the first African city to host the Games, with CGF officials hoping to work with the bid team over the next six months to ensure the campaign is as strong as possible.

Martin promised the Evaluation Commission will not be "on the hunt for anything" but want to "work with them, see what they have and make them work better".

"It's going to be an interesting journey over the next few months and I'm sure that when they deliver to the General Assembly in Auckland, we will be pleased with what we see," she said.

Louise Martin does not want cities to be put off bidding for the Commonwealth Games by having to build unnecessary facilities ©Getty Images

At a time when many cities are reluctant to bid due to economic problems across the globe, Martin admitted the CGF had to careful they do not put off potential host cities by high costs.

This is why building a velodrome - particularly when all the medals were shared between just nine countries in Glasgow - is viewed as a luxury that cannot be afforded.

Track cycling is an optional sport but has featured in every edition of the Commonwealth Games since 1934, when track events were held in Manchester, despite the Games being held in London.

"To spend millions building a veledrome, we can't ask it and that's why track cycling  is a category two sport," Martin, who will stand against Prince Imran for the CGF Presidency at the same General Assembly in Auckland, told insidethegames.

"We have to be very careful what we ask the bid cities to build.

"If we can [we will] enhance what we have already and Durban does have some fantastic facilities."

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