David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened a new £35 million state-of-the-art health and wellness club in Northwood Park, Manchester. The major investment has created over 150 permanent jobs and introduces a wide range of premium fitness and leisure facilities to the local community.
The new club is part of the company's broader strategy to expand its presence in key UK urban areas, focusing on family-oriented wellness and premium experiences. The facility spans over 100,000 square feet and includes advanced spa amenities, multiple swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports courts.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £35 million in a new club in Northwood Park, Manchester.
- The project has generated more than 150 new full-time and part-time jobs.
- The facility features a luxury spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and 10 tennis courts.
- The opening is part of a strategic expansion focusing on high-end, family-friendly wellness centers in the UK.
Details of the New Manchester Facility
The newly constructed David Lloyd club in Northwood Park represents a significant addition to the company's portfolio. The development was completed over an 18-month period and is designed to cater to a diverse membership base, from families to individual fitness enthusiasts.
The club's design emphasizes space and natural light, aiming to create a welcoming environment. According to the company, the layout was carefully planned to accommodate a high volume of members without feeling crowded, ensuring a premium experience across all areas.
Extensive Fitness and Training Zones
The core of the club is its expansive gym floor, which is equipped with the latest fitness technology. Members have access to a wide array of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a dedicated functional fitness area. The gym also includes specialized zones for personal training and small group sessions.
In addition to the main gym, there are three dedicated group exercise studios. These will host a packed schedule of over 130 classes per week, including popular options like yoga, Pilates, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and the company's signature BLAZE and IGN1TE classes.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £35 million
- Jobs Created: 150+
- Total Area: 100,000 sq ft
- Tennis Courts: 10 (5 indoor, 5 outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 3 (Indoor, Outdoor, Kids)
- Weekly Classes: 130+
Focus on Wellness and Spa Experience
A central feature of the new club is its luxurious Spa Retreat. This area is designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, separate from the main fitness zones. The spa is accessible to all club members and offers a premium wellness experience.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym. We wanted to build a comprehensive wellness destination for the entire family. The Spa Retreat is a key part of that vision, providing a space for members to relax, de-stress, and focus on their mental wellbeing," said Michelle Davies, General Manager of the new club.
The Spa Retreat includes a variety of hydrotherapy facilities. Members can use a large hydro-pool, multiple saunas with different temperature and humidity levels, a steam room, and an ice fountain. The outdoor spa garden features a sauna and a relaxation area, allowing members to unwind in a natural setting.
Family-Friendly Amenities
David Lloyd has long focused on catering to families, and the Northwood Park club continues this tradition. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids area, offering a range of activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years. This allows parents to use the club's facilities while their children are engaged in supervised activities.
The club also features indoor and outdoor swimming pools specifically for children, along with a comprehensive swimming lesson program. A soft-play area and a specially designed kids' menu in the Clubroom restaurant further enhance the family-friendly offering.
Economic Impact and Community Integration
The £35 million investment in Northwood Park has provided a significant economic boost to the local area. The creation of over 150 jobs covers a wide range of roles, from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. The company has stated its commitment to hiring from the local community wherever possible.
David Lloyd Leisure's UK Expansion
David Lloyd Leisure is the largest health and fitness operator in Europe by revenue. The opening of the Manchester club is part of a wider, ongoing investment program across the UK and Europe. The company's strategy focuses on developing large, multi-purpose clubs that offer a premium experience, setting them apart from budget gym chains.
During the construction phase, the project also supported numerous local contractors and suppliers. The long-term operation of the club is expected to contribute to the local economy through ongoing procurement and by attracting members from the surrounding region.
Building Local Partnerships
Management at the new club has expressed a desire to integrate with the local community. Plans are underway to establish partnerships with local schools and sports organizations to promote health and fitness among young people. The club's extensive racquet facilities are seen as a potential hub for developing local tennis talent.
"We are thrilled to open our doors in Manchester and become a part of the Northwood Park community," commented CEO Russell Barnes. "This club represents the next generation of our brand, combining the best in fitness, wellness, and family leisure. We are confident it will become a valued asset for the local area."
Membership and Future Outlook
Pre-opening membership sales for the Northwood Park club have reportedly been strong, indicating high demand for premium leisure facilities in the area. The company offers a tiered membership structure, providing different levels of access to suit various needs and budgets.
The successful launch of this flagship club is likely to serve as a model for future developments. As the wellness industry continues to grow, David Lloyd is positioning itself to capitalize on the increasing demand for high-quality, experience-led health clubs.
The company's continued investment signals confidence in the physical fitness and leisure market, despite the rise of digital and at-home fitness solutions. The emphasis on community, extensive facilities, and a premium in-person experience remains at the core of its business model.