One of the capital’s landmarks appears to make a ‘farting’ sound every time a firework goes off in east London.
The 6,000-seat Olympic Velodrome was built for the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games, but fireworks night might be the hardest of all.
Since the 2012 Olympics, the £95 million Velodrome has become part of its lasting legacy, continuing to act as a hub for local and international cycling.
The design of the building is compact and affectionately known as The Pringle.
But now, it seems like the venue has a new track to fame with the sounds of flatulence echoing after fireworks are reflected in its timber ventilation system.
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Many made fun of the sounds on TikTok. One user commented: ‘God forbid the Velodrome has an upset tummy,’ while another said: ‘Velodrome is an IBS girly.’
Another user commented: ‘Must kick up a stink at New Year’s.’
The lightweight, double-curving, cable-net roof structure was designed to reflect the shape of the cycling track.
The steel-framed structure sits on a glazed concourse at entry level, and is clad in timber with gaps to allow for natural ventilation.
The ventilation means there is no need for air conditioning, while its snack-shaped roof collects water used for the building’s many public conveniences.
Other architectural sound phenomena
St. Paul’s Cathedral Whispering Gallery in London
Due to the specific curve of the dome, a whisper made on one side of the gallery can be clearly heard by a person standing on the opposite side, 110 feet away.
El Castillo Pyramid in Mexico
When you clap your hands at the base of this ancient Mayan pyramid, the echo sounds like the chirp of a quetzal bird. Also the sound of you walking up the steps can sound similar to rainfall.
Beetham Tower in Manchester
This skyscraper is famous for emitting a very loud, unintentional hum or howl when it is windy. It can be heard from a large area and the architect even apologised for any noise disturbance.
London’s Olympic Velodrome has been approached for comment to explain the farting noise.
