David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its new state-of-the-art health and wellness club in Manchester, following a £25 million investment. The facility, which created over 150 new jobs, aims to provide a comprehensive range of fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented services to the local community.
The new club is one of the largest in the company's portfolio and features advanced equipment, multiple swimming pools, and extensive spa facilities. This opening marks a significant expansion for the David Lloyd brand in the North West of England, reflecting growing consumer demand for premium wellness experiences.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £25 million in a new club in Manchester.
- The project has generated more than 150 permanent jobs in the area.
- The facility includes multiple pools, a luxury spa, and family-specific zones.
- The opening is part of the company's broader strategy to expand its presence in key UK urban centers.
A Major Investment in Regional Wellness
The new Manchester club represents a substantial financial commitment from David Lloyd Leisure. The £25 million investment covers the construction, high-end equipment, and interior finishing of the multi-purpose facility. Company officials stated that this development underscores their confidence in the regional economy and the increasing importance of health and wellness in people's lives.
This project is one of the most significant single-site investments made by the company in the past five years. The construction phase alone provided temporary employment for several hundred local contractors, contributing to the regional economy even before the doors opened.
Background on David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. The company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, serving more than 730,000 members. Its business model focuses on providing premium, family-friendly environments with a wide array of facilities.
The choice of Manchester for this flagship club was strategic. According to market analysis cited by the company, the city has a growing demographic of professionals and families who are actively seeking premium leisure options. The new club is positioned to meet this demand with its extensive offerings.
Facility Features and Amenities
The new club is designed to cater to a wide range of members, from serious athletes to families seeking recreational activities. The facility's layout and services have been planned to provide distinct zones for different activities, ensuring a comfortable experience for all users.
Fitness and Training Areas
The core of the club is its expansive gym floor, which is equipped with the latest fitness technology. This includes a large selection of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a significant free weights area. Additionally, the club offers specialized training zones.
- Cardio Zone: Features over 100 machines, including treadmills, cross-trainers, and stationary bikes with integrated entertainment systems.
- Strength Zone: A comprehensive area with plate-loaded machines, cable stations, and a full range of dumbbells and barbells.
- Functional Fitness Area: A dedicated space for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), equipped with rigs, sleds, and other functional training tools.
By the Numbers
The new Manchester facility spans over 150,000 square feet. It includes three swimming pools, 12 tennis courts (indoor and outdoor), and five dedicated group exercise studios offering over 150 classes per week.
Aquatics and Spa Facilities
A key attraction is the extensive aquatics center. The club features a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and a separate, warmer family pool with interactive water features. An outdoor heated pool allows for year-round swimming.
Adjacent to the pools is the luxury spa, named the 'Spa Retreat.' This area is designed for relaxation and recovery.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym; we wanted to build a comprehensive wellness destination," said the club's General Manager. "The Spa Retreat is central to that vision, offering a sanctuary for members to de-stress and rejuvenate."
The spa includes a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas and steam rooms, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds. A range of professional spa treatments and therapies are also available to members.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the new David Lloyd club brings significant economic benefits to the local area. The creation of over 150 permanent jobs is a major highlight. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, facility management, and administration.
The company has emphasized its commitment to hiring from the local community. Training programs have been established to upskill new employees, providing them with recognized qualifications in the leisure industry. This focus on local employment is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy.
Furthermore, the club is expected to attract members from across the Greater Manchester region, potentially increasing footfall for other nearby businesses. The development has also improved local infrastructure with new access roads and landscaping as part of the planning agreement.
Family and Social Offerings
A distinguishing feature of the David Lloyd model is its focus on family. The new Manchester club includes dedicated facilities for children of all ages. The 'DL Kids' program offers a wide range of activities, from sports coaching to arts and crafts, all aligned with national curriculum standards.
The club also features a soft-play area, a dedicated family lounge, and a crèche service, allowing parents to use the gym or spa facilities with peace of mind. Teenagers have their own designated zones and activities, ensuring the club caters to the entire family unit.
Beyond fitness, the club is designed as a social hub. It includes a large 'Clubroom' with a restaurant, café, and business lounge area. This space is intended for members to work, socialize, and relax, extending the club's function beyond a simple place to exercise.
Membership and Access
Membership is offered on a tiered basis, with options for individuals, couples, and families. Different packages provide varying levels of access to facilities like the spa and specific racquet sports. The company reported strong pre-opening membership sales, indicating high local interest.
The opening event was attended by local dignitaries and community leaders, who welcomed the investment and the new amenities it brings to the city. The club is now fully operational and open to members seven days a week.