David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The new facility, representing a significant investment in the local area, is expected to create numerous jobs and provide extensive fitness and leisure amenities to the community.
The club is the 104th location in the United Kingdom for the group and is part of a broader strategy of expansion. It features a wide range of state-of-the-art equipment, swimming pools, tennis courts, and dedicated family areas, aiming to cater to a diverse membership base.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new multi-million pound facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The club is the company's 104th in the UK and has created over 80 new full-time and part-time jobs.
- Facilities include a 100+ station gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa area.
- The development is part of the Catalyst Bicester business park and aims to serve the growing local community.
Facility Details and Investment
The new Bicester club is a significant development, built on a site adjacent to the town's popular retail village. The project involved a multi-million pound investment, although the exact figure has not been publicly disclosed. This investment covers the construction of the main building, installation of premium fitness equipment, and development of extensive outdoor facilities.
According to company representatives, the club is designed to be a premium destination for health and wellness. The main gym floor spans a large area and is equipped with over 100 stations, including the latest cardio machines, weightlifting equipment, and functional training zones.
Strategic Location in a Growing Town
Bicester was chosen for this new location due to its rapid population growth and strategic position within Oxfordshire. The town is undergoing significant residential and commercial development, making it an attractive market for leisure and wellness providers. The club's proximity to major transport links and residential areas is expected to drive strong membership numbers.
Indoor and Outdoor Amenities
A central feature of the new club is its extensive aquatic facilities. Members have access to both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool. These are complemented by a separate indoor splash pool designed specifically for children, making the club appealing to families.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club offers three indoor tennis courts and three outdoor courts with all-weather surfaces. Additionally, there are two Padel courts, catering to the growing popularity of the sport. Badminton and squash courts are also available for booking.
Spa and Wellness Features
Beyond traditional fitness, the Bicester location places a strong emphasis on recovery and relaxation. The club includes a luxurious spa area, branded as the 'Spa Retreat'. This section is designed as a tranquil escape for adult members.
Focus on Holistic Wellness
The Spa Retreat includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice cave, and a deep relaxation room. This comprehensive offering reflects a growing industry trend towards holistic wellness, where mental relaxation and physical recovery are considered as important as exercise.
The inclusion of such extensive spa facilities is part of David Lloyd's strategy to position its clubs as premium, all-encompassing wellness destinations rather than just gyms. This approach aims to attract a broader demographic and increase the average time members spend at the facility.
"Our goal was to create more than just a place to work out. We wanted to build a community hub where families and individuals can focus on their overall wellbeing, from fitness and sport to relaxation and socialising," a company spokesperson stated during the launch event.
Family and Community Integration
David Lloyd Clubs has consistently targeted the family market, and the Bicester club is no exception. The facility includes a dedicated 'DL Kids' area offering a range of activities and coaching for younger members. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are supervised in age-appropriate programs.
The club also features a large 'Clubroom' with an indoor and outdoor terrace. This space serves as a social hub, offering a food and beverage menu for members to relax, work, or socialise. This design encourages members to view the club as a 'third space' between home and work.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The opening of the new club has had a direct positive impact on the local economy. David Lloyd announced that the facility has created over 80 new jobs in the Bicester area. These positions range from fitness instructors and personal trainers to hospitality staff and management roles.
The club is located within the Catalyst Bicester business park, a hub for technology and advanced manufacturing. The presence of a premium leisure facility is expected to make the business park more attractive to other companies and their employees, contributing to the overall economic development of the region.
Membership and Accessibility
Membership for the new club opened prior to its official launch, with the company reporting strong initial interest from the local community. Several membership tiers are available, including options for individuals, couples, and families, with pricing reflecting the premium nature of the facilities.
The club offers a wide range of classes as part of the membership package. These include:
- Group Cycling: Dedicated studios with immersive sound and lighting.
- High-Intensity Workouts: Signature classes like BLAZE, which combines cardio, strength, and combat training.
- Holistic Classes: Yoga, Pilates, and other mind-body sessions held in a dedicated studio.
According to the club's general manager, the diverse class schedule is designed to cater to all fitness levels and interests, ensuring that every member can find activities that suit their goals. The club's digital app allows for easy booking of classes, courts, and personal training sessions, enhancing the member experience.
The development of the Bicester club underscores David Lloyd's confidence in the physical fitness and wellness market. By combining high-end gym equipment with extensive spa, racquet, and family facilities, the company aims to provide a comprehensive offering that justifies its premium positioning.