David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest facility in Bristol, a project representing an £18 million investment. The new club, located in the Royal Meadows development, is expected to create over 100 new jobs and provide extensive health, wellness, and leisure amenities to the local community.
The opening marks the company's 103rd club in the United Kingdom and is part of a broader strategy to expand its presence in key regional hubs. The facility spans 100,000 square feet and includes state-of-the-art fitness equipment, multiple swimming pools, and extensive family-oriented features.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £18 million club in Bristol's Royal Meadows area.
- The facility is projected to create more than 100 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Key features include indoor and outdoor pools, 10 tennis courts, a large gym, and a luxury spa.
- The club is the company's 103rd location in the UK and reflects a strategy of regional expansion.
A Major Investment in Regional Leisure
The new Bristol club represents a significant financial commitment from David Lloyd Leisure. The £18 million investment covers the construction of the main building, installation of advanced fitness technology, and development of outdoor sports facilities. According to company statements, the project was completed on schedule despite challenges in the global supply chain for construction materials.
This new location is strategically positioned to serve the growing residential communities in the north of Bristol. The Royal Meadows development has seen a rapid increase in population over the past five years, creating demand for high-quality local amenities. The club aims to become a central hub for family activities, fitness, and social gatherings in the area.
"Our goal has always been to create premium destinations that support the health and wellbeing of the entire family," said Glenn Earlam, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure. "This new Bristol club is a testament to that commitment. We see this as a long-term investment in the community, providing both exceptional facilities and stable local employment."
The economic impact of the new club is a key aspect of its development. The creation of over 100 jobs spans various roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, hospitality staff, and management positions. The company has emphasized its focus on hiring from the local talent pool to ensure the club is integrated into the community fabric.
Extensive Facilities for Fitness and Wellness
The Bristol club offers a comprehensive range of amenities designed to cater to a diverse membership base. The facility's design focuses on providing distinct zones for different activities, ensuring a premium experience for all users.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Area: 100,000 square feet
- Gym Floor Space: 15,000 square feet
- Swimming Pools: 3 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor, indoor kids' splash pool)
- Tennis Courts: 10 (5 indoor, 5 outdoor)
- Spa Treatment Rooms: 7
The main gym is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. It includes dedicated areas for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. A unique feature is the BLAZE studio, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class that combines cardio, strength, and combat elements in a boutique-style environment.
Aquatic and Racquet Sports
A central feature of the club is its extensive aquatic facilities. Members have access to a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a heated 20-meter outdoor pool that is open year-round. A separate indoor splash pool provides a safe and engaging environment for young children.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club boasts 10 championship-standard tennis courts. Five of these are located indoors within a climate-controlled environment, allowing for play regardless of the weather. The remaining five are outdoor courts with floodlighting for evening use. The club also features badminton and squash courts.
Focus on Family and Community
David Lloyd has consistently positioned its clubs as family-friendly destinations, and the new Bristol location is no exception. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids area, offering a range of supervised activities, classes, and play areas for children from three months to 16 years old.
The club also features a large 'Clubroom' which functions as a café, bar, and restaurant. This social space includes an adults-only business hub with complimentary Wi-Fi and workstations, as well as a family zone. The design encourages members to use the club not just for exercise but also for work, relaxation, and socializing.
David Lloyd's UK Expansion Strategy
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure has grown to become one of Europe's leading health and leisure groups. The opening in Bristol is part of a calculated expansion plan targeting areas with strong demographic growth. The company's model focuses on large, multi-purpose sites that offer a wider range of services than typical gyms, positioning them as premium 'third spaces' between home and work.
Another key element is the luxury spa. The 'Spa Retreat' is an adults-only sanctuary featuring a hydrotherapy pool, saunas, steam rooms, and an outdoor spa garden. This offering is designed to appeal to members seeking relaxation and recovery, broadening the club's appeal beyond traditional fitness.
Local Reaction and Future Outlook
The launch of the Royal Meadows club has been met with positive interest from the local community. Pre-opening membership sales reportedly exceeded initial targets, indicating strong demand for this type of comprehensive leisure facility in the region. Local officials have welcomed the investment and the new jobs it brings.
The opening comes at a time when the health and wellness industry is experiencing significant growth. There is an increasing public focus on physical and mental wellbeing, a trend that David Lloyd is well-positioned to capitalize on with its holistic approach to leisure.
Looking ahead, the company has indicated that it will continue to evaluate opportunities for new clubs in other underserved areas of the UK. The success of the Bristol model will likely serve as a blueprint for future developments, combining premium fitness equipment, extensive family services, and high-end wellness facilities under one roof.