David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £25 million health and wellness club in the Trafford area of Manchester, creating more than 150 local jobs. The state-of-the-art facility, which officially opened its doors this week, represents a significant investment in the region's leisure infrastructure and is part of the company's ongoing UK expansion strategy.
The new club aims to provide comprehensive health, fitness, and relaxation services for families and individuals. It features advanced gym equipment, multiple swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports facilities, positioning it as a premium destination in the competitive local wellness market.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £25 million in a new health club in Manchester.
- The project has created over 150 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- The facility includes a modern gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and extensive racquet courts.
- This opening is a key part of David Lloyd's strategic expansion across the United Kingdom.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The £25 million investment underscores David Lloyd Leisure's commitment to developing high-quality wellness facilities in major UK cities. The Manchester club is one of the company's largest recent projects, designed to meet growing consumer demand for premium health and fitness experiences.
Spanning over 100,000 square feet, the site was developed over an 18-month period. Company officials state that the location in Trafford was chosen due to its accessibility and the demographic profile of the surrounding communities, which show a strong interest in health and family-oriented activities.
"We are thrilled to bring our latest and most advanced club to Manchester," said Simon Jones, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure. "This facility is more than just a gym; it's a community hub designed to support the physical and mental wellbeing of our members. Our investment reflects our confidence in the city and our dedication to providing best-in-class amenities."
The development is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy, not only through direct employment but also by attracting visitors and supporting nearby businesses. The company has emphasized its intention to build long-term relationships with local suppliers and community organizations.
Extensive Facilities and Modern Amenities
The new Manchester club offers a wide range of facilities designed to cater to diverse fitness levels and interests. The design focuses on creating distinct zones for different activities, ensuring a comfortable experience for all members.
What is David Lloyd Leisure?
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. The company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. Its clubs are known for their family-friendly environments and extensive range of facilities, including gyms, swimming pools, and racquet sports.
Core Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the club is its expansive gymnasium, which is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. The gym floor is divided into specialized zones, including areas for cardio, strength training, functional fitness, and free weights. Members have access to personal trainers and a proprietary app for tracking progress and booking classes.
In addition to the main gym, the club features several dedicated studios for group exercise. These include:
- A High-Impact Studio: For classes like HIIT and circuit training.
- A Mind & Body Studio: For yoga, Pilates, and meditation sessions.
- A Group Cycling Studio: Featuring immersive digital displays and high-performance bikes.
The club plans to offer over 150 group classes per week, all included within the membership package.
Aquatic and Spa Facilities
A significant portion of the investment was allocated to the club's aquatic and relaxation areas. The facility boasts both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and a heated 20-meter outdoor pool, which will be open year-round.
Adjacent to the pools is the club's spa, named the 'Spa Retreat'. This area is designed as an adults-only sanctuary and includes a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas, steam rooms, and heated relaxation beds. The company reports that its spa facilities are a key differentiator in the premium health club market.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The opening of the new David Lloyd club has provided a significant boost to the local job market. The company confirmed that it has created more than 150 new positions, ranging from management and fitness professionals to hospitality and maintenance staff.
Recruitment efforts focused on hiring from the local community. The roles created include gym instructors, personal trainers, swimming coaches, tennis professionals, front-of-house staff, and restaurant and kitchen personnel. The company provides extensive training for its employees, with clear pathways for career progression within the organization.
"Creating sustainable local employment is one of the most important outcomes of a project like this," commented Councillor Sarah Reid, a representative from the local economic development committee. "The investment from David Lloyd not only provides valuable amenities for our residents but also brings stable, quality jobs to the area. It's a welcome addition to our community's economic landscape."
The construction phase also supported numerous jobs in the building and trade sectors, further contributing to the regional economy over the past year and a half.
Future Plans and Market Position
The Manchester opening is a key milestone in David Lloyd Leisure's current growth phase. The company has identified several other key urban and suburban locations across the UK for potential new clubs and is also focused on refurbishing and upgrading its existing portfolio.
According to industry analysts, the wellness market has shown remarkable resilience and growth, with consumers increasingly prioritizing health and lifestyle-related spending. David Lloyd's strategy of offering a premium, family-focused experience places it in a strong position to capitalize on this trend.
The company continues to innovate its offerings, with a growing emphasis on digital integration, personalized wellness plans, and holistic health services that extend beyond physical fitness. The new Manchester club will serve as a model for future developments, incorporating the latest concepts in club design and member experience.