David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest facility, a £30 million health and wellness club named Cambridge Park. The expansive site is expected to create over 100 local jobs and provide a wide range of fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented services to the region.
The new club, which is the company's 103rd location, features state-of-the-art equipment, multiple swimming pools, extensive spa facilities, and dedicated areas for children's activities. The investment signals confidence in the growing demand for premium wellness experiences and is one of the largest single-site investments for the company in the last five years.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £30 million in a new club, Cambridge Park, located on the outskirts of Cambridge.
- The facility is projected to create more than 100 full-time and part-time jobs in the local community.
- Features include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, 10 tennis courts, and advanced gym equipment.
- The club aims to cater to individuals and families with dedicated zones for adults, children, and co-working spaces.
A Major Investment in Regional Wellness
The opening of the Cambridge Park facility represents a significant financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure. The £30 million investment underscores the company's strategy of developing large-scale, multi-purpose clubs in key regional hubs. According to company statements, the site was chosen due to Cambridge's strong economic profile and a local population with a high interest in health and fitness.
Construction on the 10-acre site took approximately 22 months to complete. The project involved local contractors and suppliers, providing a boost to the regional economy even before its official opening. The club's management has stated that over 70% of the new staff have been hired from within a 15-mile radius of the facility.
By the Numbers: Cambridge Park
- Total Investment: £30,000,000
- Jobs Created: 100+
- Total Area: 10 acres
- Gym Floor Space: 15,000 sq ft
- Tennis Courts: 10 (5 indoor, 5 outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 3 (Indoor, Outdoor, Kids)
The new roles cover a wide range of positions, including fitness coaches, spa therapists, administrative staff, and hospitality personnel. This influx of jobs is a welcome development for the local employment market.
Comprehensive Facilities for Fitness and Relaxation
David Lloyd Cambridge Park is designed to be more than just a gym. The facility is structured to provide a holistic wellness experience, blending high-intensity fitness with opportunities for relaxation and social engagement. The club's general manager, Sarah Jenkins, highlighted this approach.
"Our goal was to create a destination where members can focus on their physical and mental wellbeing. Whether that's through a high-energy Blaze class, a quiet swim in the outdoor pool, or simply relaxing in the spa garden, we offer a complete experience under one roof."
The core of the fitness offering is a spacious 15,000-square-foot gym floor. It is equipped with the latest technology from brands like Technogym and Life Fitness, including a wide array of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a large free-weights area. Additionally, the club offers several specialized studios.
Dedicated Workout Zones
The club features several boutique-style studios for group classes. These include:
- The Blaze Studio: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) zone that combines cardio, strength, and combat exercises.
- The Rhythm Studio: A state-of-the-art indoor cycling studio with immersive lighting and sound systems.
- Mind & Body Studio: A serene space for yoga, Pilates, and other holistic practices.
According to David Lloyd, these dedicated studios allow for a more focused and motivating group exercise experience, rivaling standalone boutique fitness centers.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Swimming
Staying true to its heritage, the Cambridge Park club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facility boasts a total of 10 tennis courts, split between five indoor acrylic courts and five outdoor artificial clay courts, allowing for year-round play. The club also features badminton and squash courts.
Swimming facilities are another major draw. The club includes a 25-meter indoor lap pool for serious swimmers, a heated 20-meter outdoor pool for leisure and family use, and a dedicated indoor splash pool for children. Swimming lessons and aqua aerobics classes are available for all ages and skill levels.
The David Lloyd Leisure Group
Founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd, the company has grown into one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. It currently operates 103 clubs in the UK and a further 30 across mainland Europe. The brand is known for its family-friendly approach and premium facilities, particularly in racquet sports.
A Destination for Families and Professionals
A key part of the David Lloyd model is its appeal to families. The Cambridge Park location includes a dedicated DL Kids facility with a soft play area, activity rooms, and a crèche. The club runs a comprehensive program of after-school and holiday activities designed to keep children active and engaged.
The club also caters to the needs of working professionals. An adults-only co-working space, branded as the 'Clubroom,' offers high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a quiet environment for remote work. This feature is designed to allow members to integrate their work, fitness, and social lives seamlessly.
Luxury Spa and Wellness Amenities
The 'Spa Retreat' is a significant component of the new club. This area is designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Access is typically reserved for certain membership tiers to maintain a tranquil atmosphere.
Features of the Spa Retreat include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- A Himalayan salt cave
- An outdoor spa garden with sun loungers and a fire pit
- Heated relaxation beds
The extensive spa facilities are intended to provide members with a premium wellness experience that goes beyond standard gym offerings, positioning the club as a direct competitor to standalone day spas in the region.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd club is expected to have a lasting positive impact on the local community. Beyond the immediate creation of over 100 jobs, the facility is likely to attract visitors from surrounding areas, potentially benefiting other local businesses.
The company has also expressed a commitment to community engagement, with plans to partner with local schools and sports organizations to promote health and fitness initiatives. The development is seen as a vote of confidence in the Cambridge area's economic vitality and its future as a desirable place to live and work.