David Lloyd Leisure has expanded its portfolio with the opening of a new £25 million club in Weybridge, Surrey. The state-of-the-art facility is part of the company's broader strategy to invest in premium health, wellness, and family-oriented leisure spaces across the United Kingdom.
The new club, which officially opened its doors to members this week, is expected to create approximately 150 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local area. It features a wide range of modern amenities aimed at catering to a diverse membership base, from families to individual professionals.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £25 million in a new club located in Weybridge, Surrey.
- The facility includes advanced wellness features, multiple swimming pools, and both indoor and outdoor tennis courts.
- The project has created around 150 new jobs, boosting the local economy.
- This opening is part of a wider company strategy focusing on premium, family-friendly wellness centers following the pandemic.
A Strategic Investment in Premium Wellness
The launch of the Weybridge club represents a significant capital investment for David Lloyd Leisure. Company officials have stated that the project reflects a growing consumer demand for high-quality, comprehensive wellness facilities that go beyond a traditional gym setup.
This move aligns with market trends showing a post-pandemic surge in consumer spending on health and well-being. The Weybridge location was strategically chosen due to its affluent demographic and a local community that has shown strong interest in premium leisure services.
Background on 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, serving more than 730,000 members. Its model focuses on providing a wide range of facilities for all ages under one roof.
Catering to Modern Lifestyle Needs
The design of the new club emphasizes a holistic approach to health. Beyond the extensive gym floor, the facility incorporates spaces for mental well-being and social interaction. This includes a luxurious spa, a dedicated business lounge with high-speed internet, and a family-friendly café and restaurant.
"Our goal with the Weybridge club was to create more than just a place to exercise; it's a destination for families and individuals to relax, work, and socialize," said Russell Barnes, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure. "This £25 million investment demonstrates our confidence in the UK leisure market and our commitment to providing best-in-class facilities for our members."
The inclusion of a business lounge, known as the 'Clubroom,' directly addresses the rise of flexible and remote working arrangements. It allows members to combine their work and wellness routines in a single location, a feature that has become increasingly popular.
Inside the New £25 Million Facility
The Weybridge club spans over 15,000 square meters and offers a comprehensive suite of amenities. The company has focused on providing top-tier equipment and diverse activity options to justify its premium positioning in the market.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £25 million
- Total Area: 15,000 square meters
- New Jobs Created: ~150
- Tennis Courts: 12 (6 indoor, 6 outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 3 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor, kids' splash pool)
Sports and Fitness Amenities
The club's fitness offerings are extensive. The main gym is equipped with the latest technology from brands like Technogym and Life Fitness. In addition to the main workout area, there are several specialized zones:
- Group Exercise Studios: Three large studios host over 100 classes per week, including yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
- Blaze Studio: A signature David Lloyd offering, this boutique-style studio combines cardio, strength, and combat training in one session.
- Cycling Studio: A dedicated indoor cycling studio with immersive digital displays.
- Racquet Sports: A major focus of the club includes 12 championship-standard tennis courts and, for the first time in this region for the brand, four Padel tennis courts, catering to the fast-growing sport.
Wellness and Relaxation Features
A significant portion of the investment was allocated to the club's spa and wellness areas. The 'Spa Retreat' is designed as an adult-only sanctuary, featuring a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas, steam rooms, and heated relaxation beds.
The club also boasts both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The 20-meter heated outdoor pool is designed for year-round use, providing members with a resort-like experience. For families, a dedicated indoor splash pool for children ensures a safe and fun environment.
Economic Impact and Community Response
The creation of approximately 150 jobs is a welcome development for the local economy. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. The company prioritized local hiring where possible during its recruitment drive.
Local officials have expressed support for the project, citing both the economic benefits and the addition of a high-quality community asset. The development, which took 18 months to complete, also provided work for numerous local contractors and suppliers during the construction phase.
The Growing UK Wellness Market
According to recent industry reports, the UK's wellness economy is valued at over £23 billion. Consumers are increasingly willing to spend on services that support physical and mental health, a trend that has accelerated since 2020. This market growth underpins large-scale investments like the one made by David Lloyd in Weybridge.
Future Expansion Plans
The opening in Weybridge is reportedly one of several major projects in the pipeline for David Lloyd Leisure. The company is actively seeking opportunities to upgrade existing clubs and build new ones in key locations across the UK and Europe.
This strategy is focused on capitalizing on the 'flight to quality' trend, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for superior experiences and facilities. By continuing to invest in its properties, David Lloyd aims to solidify its position as a leader in the premium health and leisure sector.
As the Weybridge club begins to welcome its founding members, its performance will be closely watched as a benchmark for future investments and a signal of the health of the UK's premium leisure industry.
