David Lloyd Clubs has announced the upcoming summer 2024 opening of its new £13 million facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The premium health, spa, and racquets club is expected to generate more than 80 jobs and will be the company's 104th location in the United Kingdom.
Located at the Catalyst Bicester business park on Wendlebury Road, the new club aims to provide comprehensive wellness and fitness services to the local community. The development includes a wide range of facilities, from state-of-the-art gym equipment to extensive spa and swimming amenities, catering to both families and individual members.
Key Takeaways
- A new £13 million David Lloyd Club will open in Bicester in summer 2024.
- The facility is expected to create over 80 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Features include a large gym, four fitness studios, indoor and outdoor pools, and a spa garden.
- The club will also offer dedicated family facilities, including a DL Kids club and crèche.
A Major Investment in Bicester's Local Economy
The construction of the new David Lloyd Club represents a significant investment in the Bicester area. The £13 million project underscores the company's confidence in the town's growth and its commitment to expanding its presence across the UK. The club's location within the Catalyst Bicester business park positions it as a key amenity for the growing commercial and residential hub.
According to the company, the development will create more than 80 new jobs for the local community. These roles will span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, operations, and spa services. This influx of employment opportunities is a welcome addition to Bicester's economy, providing both full-time and part-time positions.
Catalyst Bicester Development
The David Lloyd Club is a cornerstone of the Catalyst Bicester project, a new 300,000 sq ft technology and manufacturing park. This broader development aims to attract innovative businesses to the area, further stimulating economic growth and job creation in the region.
The club is the 104th David Lloyd location in the UK and the 134th globally. This expansion is part of the company's broader strategy to bring premium health and wellness facilities to key regional towns and cities. The Bicester club joins a network that serves over 750,000 members across nine European countries.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness Facilities
The new Bicester club is designed to offer a wide array of fitness and relaxation options. The facility is structured to meet the needs of a diverse membership base, from serious athletes to families seeking active leisure time.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Training
At the core of the club is a 100-plus station gym featuring the latest fitness equipment. The space will be equipped with a range of cardio machines, strength training apparatus, and functional fitness zones to accommodate various workout styles.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club will house four dedicated group exercise studios. These include:
- A High Energy Studio for fast-paced classes.
- A Mind and Body Studio for yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- An IGN1TE Studio for high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
- A Cyclone Studio for immersive indoor cycling classes.
This variety ensures members have access to a packed timetable of classes designed to suit different fitness levels and preferences.
Global Reach
David Lloyd Leisure is Europe's largest health, fitness, and racquets group. The company operates 134 clubs, with 104 in the UK and an additional 30 across mainland Europe, including locations in Ireland, Spain, and Italy.
Extensive Spa and Swimming Amenities
A significant highlight of the new club is its extensive spa and aquatic facilities. The design emphasizes both active swimming and relaxation, providing a resort-like experience for members.
The club will feature a 20-meter indoor swimming pool and a 25-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The outdoor pool area is designed as a social hub, with sun loungers and a patio for relaxation during warmer months.
The Spa Garden Retreat
A key feature is the expansive Spa Garden, an outdoor retreat designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. This area includes several amenities aimed at promoting wellness:
- An outdoor hydro-pool.
- A sauna with panoramic windows.
- Loungers and comfortable seating areas.
- Landscaped garden zones for a tranquil atmosphere.
Inside, the spa facilities continue with a sauna, a steam room, and a whirlpool, providing members with a complete thermal spa circuit. These amenities are central to the David Lloyd brand's focus on holistic well-being.
"Our new Bicester club is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional health and wellness experiences. We are excited to become a part of the local community and offer a space where families and individuals can prioritize their well-being." - A David Lloyd Clubs representative stated.
Family-Focused Offerings and Social Spaces
David Lloyd Clubs has traditionally placed a strong emphasis on family-friendly services, and the Bicester location is no exception. The club is designed to be a destination for all ages, with dedicated spaces and activities for children.
The DL Kids club will offer a scheduled program of activities for children aged 3 to 11, including sports, arts and crafts, and supervised play. For younger children, a crèche service will be available, allowing parents to use the club's facilities with peace of mind. A dedicated family swimming pool area will also be part of the design.
Clubroom and Social Hub
Beyond fitness, the club aims to be a social center for its members. The spacious Clubroom will serve as a café, bar, and restaurant, offering a menu of fresh and healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. This area is designed for members to relax, socialize, or work remotely, with designated adult-only and family zones.
The inclusion of an outdoor patio area extends this social space, providing an option for al fresco dining. This focus on community and social interaction is a core component of the David Lloyd membership experience, encouraging members to spend extended time at the facility.
Looking Ahead to the Grand Opening
As construction nears completion, anticipation for the summer 2024 opening is building. The club has already begun its recruitment process for the 80-plus roles, seeking local talent to staff the new facility.
The introduction of the David Lloyd Club is poised to enhance the leisure and wellness landscape of Bicester. By providing a high-quality, multi-faceted facility, the company aims to foster a healthier and more active community while contributing positively to the local economy through investment and job creation. The official opening date is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.