David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its new £12.5 million club in Bicester, Oxfordshire, creating 75 new jobs and introducing a state-of-the-art health and wellness facility to the region. The new club, the 103rd in the UK for the group, is located at the Wendlebury Interchange business park and aims to provide premium fitness and relaxation services for families and individuals.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd has invested £12.5 million in a new leisure club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The new facility has created 75 permanent jobs in the local community.
- It features extensive facilities, including a 100-station gym, multiple swimming pools, a luxury spa, and family-oriented spaces.
- The club is the 103rd David Lloyd location in the UK and is situated at the Wendlebury Interchange business park.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The opening of the Bicester club represents a significant investment by David Lloyd Leisure, signaling confidence in the growing demand for premium health and wellness facilities outside of major metropolitan areas. Construction on the site began over a year ago, transforming the space into a comprehensive centre for fitness, relaxation, and social activity.
The development is strategically located to serve the residents of Bicester and the surrounding North Oxfordshire countryside. Company officials noted that the area was identified as a key growth corridor with a strong community focus, making it an ideal location for their latest expansion project.
By the Numbers
- Investment: £12.5 Million
- New Jobs Created: 75
- UK Club Number: 103
- Gym Size: 100+ stations
- Indoor Pool: 25 metres
- Outdoor Pool: 20 metres
Inside the New Facility
The Bicester club offers a wide range of amenities designed to cater to a diverse membership base. The centerpiece is a large, modern gym equipped with over 100 stations featuring the latest technology from brands like Eleiko and Life Fitness. This includes dedicated zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness.
Beyond the main gym floor, the club has incorporated specialized workout spaces. These include a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio called BLAZE, a serene Mind & Body studio for yoga and Pilates, and a group cycling studio. This variety allows members to choose from over 100 weekly classes tailored to different fitness levels and interests.
Aquatics and Spa Facilities
Water-based activities are a major focus of the new location. Members have access to both a 25-metre indoor swimming pool and a 20-metre heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The club also offers swimming lessons for children and adults through its Swim Stars programme.
For relaxation and recovery, the club features a luxurious Spa Retreat. This area includes a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds. The design emphasizes a tranquil environment, providing a space for members to unwind after a workout or simply escape daily stresses.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym; we wanted to build a premium destination for the entire family to focus on their health and wellbeing. From the state-of-the-art equipment to the luxury spa, every detail has been considered to provide the best possible experience for our members."
Family and Social Spaces
A key element of the David Lloyd model is its focus on family. The Bicester club includes a dedicated DL Kids area with activities scheduled around the main class timetable. This allows parents to work out while their children are engaged in supervised play and sports activities.
The Broader David Lloyd Strategy
David Lloyd Leisure has been steadily expanding its portfolio across the UK and Europe. This new opening in Bicester is part of a wider strategy to establish premium clubs in affluent towns and commuter belts, tapping into a demographic that prioritizes health, wellness, and family-oriented leisure activities.
The club also features a large 'Clubroom' with an indoor and outdoor patio area. This space serves as a social hub where members can work, relax, or dine. The menu offers a range of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks, catering to post-workout nutrition and casual dining alike. The inclusion of a business lounge area with Wi-Fi and charging stations also caters to professionals and remote workers.
Economic Impact and Community Reaction
The creation of 75 jobs is a welcome boost to the local economy. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. The company has emphasized hiring from the local community where possible, providing stable employment and career development opportunities.
Local officials have expressed support for the development, highlighting the dual benefits of improved wellness amenities for residents and the positive economic impact. The investment is seen as a vote of confidence in Bicester's growth and its attractiveness as a place to live and do business.
As the club opens its doors, the focus will now shift to integrating into the community and delivering on its promise of providing a premium health and leisure experience. With its extensive facilities and family-friendly approach, the new David Lloyd club is poised to become a central part of Bicester's wellness landscape.