David Lloyd Clubs has announced a significant £20 million investment to develop a new premium health, wellness, and racquets club in Rugby, Warwickshire. The project, slated to open in late 2025, marks the company's first new build in the UK in over a decade and is expected to create approximately 100 local jobs.
The new facility will be constructed on a 13-acre site adjacent to the Rugby Radio Station development. The club is designed to offer a comprehensive range of family-friendly amenities, including state-of-the-art fitness equipment, swimming pools, and extensive racquets facilities, reinforcing the company's commitment to expanding its presence in key regional markets.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs is investing £20 million in a new facility in Rugby, Warwickshire.
- The project is the company's first new UK club build in more than 10 years.
- Scheduled to open in late 2025, the club will create around 100 new jobs.
- The 13-acre site will feature extensive fitness, swimming, and racquet sports facilities.
A Strategic Expansion for the Leisure Giant
The announcement of the Rugby club represents a pivotal moment for David Lloyd Leisure, the UK's largest health and wellness group. This project is the first new club to be built from the ground up in the United Kingdom since 2013, signaling a renewed focus on domestic growth after years of international expansion.
The choice of Rugby is strategic. Located near a major new housing development, the club aims to serve a growing community. According to company statements, the facility will cater to families and individuals seeking premium leisure options, a core demographic for the David Lloyd brand.
Stuart Caswell, New Clubs Acquisition Director at David Lloyd Clubs, commented on the development.
"We are delighted to announce our plans for David Lloyd Rugby. This is our first new build club in the UK for over ten years, so it's a very special milestone for our business as we continue to invest in our estate."
Details of the New Facility
The planned club will span a significant footprint, offering a wide array of amenities designed to meet diverse fitness and wellness needs. The development plans outline a comprehensive offering that aligns with the brand's premium positioning.
Key features of the upcoming David Lloyd Rugby club include:
- Fitness and Gym: A 10,000 sq ft gymnasium equipped with cutting-edge fitness technology and equipment.
- Group Exercise: Four dedicated group exercise studios, including a High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) studio, a spin studio, and a Mind & Body studio.
- Swimming Facilities: A 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, complemented by an outdoor poolside patio area.
- Racquet Sports: Three indoor Padel courts, five indoor tennis courts, and four outdoor tennis courts.
Facility at a Glance
The new club will offer over 100 weekly exercise classes, catering to all fitness levels. The inclusion of Padel courts reflects the growing popularity of the sport across the UK and Europe.
Focus on Wellness and Family Amenities
Beyond traditional fitness offerings, the Rugby club will place a strong emphasis on wellness and relaxation. A significant portion of the facility is dedicated to spa and recovery amenities, a trend gaining traction across the health club industry.
The planned spa area will feature a range of hydrotherapy facilities. Members will have access to a sauna, a steam room, and a heated spa pool. This focus on holistic well-being is a central part of David Lloyd's strategy to provide a comprehensive member experience that goes beyond just exercise.
The Rise of Wellness in Fitness
Modern health clubs are increasingly integrating wellness services like saunas, cryotherapy, and massage to attract and retain members. According to industry reports, consumers are now looking for facilities that support both physical fitness and mental well-being, driving investment in spa-like amenities.
Family-oriented services are another cornerstone of the David Lloyd model. The Rugby location will include a dedicated DL Kids facility, offering 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, a key selling point for the family market.
The club will also feature a Clubroom with an indoor and outdoor dining area, providing a social space for members to relax and connect. An adults-only business hub is also planned, catering to the increasing number of professionals who work remotely.
Economic Impact and Community Integration
The £20 million investment is expected to have a notable economic impact on the Rugby area. The creation of approximately 100 full-time and part-time jobs will provide a boost to local employment. These roles will range from management and fitness instruction to hospitality and maintenance.
The club's location next to the large Rugby Radio Station housing development, which is set to deliver over 6,000 new homes, is a deliberate choice. It positions the facility as a central amenity for new and existing residents, fostering a sense of community and providing accessible leisure options.
The Construction and Opening Timeline
With planning permission secured, the project is moving into the construction phase. The company has appointed Pellikaan as the main contractor, a firm with extensive experience in building leisure centers across Europe.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the coming months. The projected opening date is late 2025, though this is subject to the construction timeline. Once open, the club will join David Lloyd's portfolio of 103 clubs in the UK and a further 30 across mainland Europe.
Stephen Nardelli, the associate at property consultancy Carter Jonas who worked on the deal, highlighted the project's significance.
"It is a testament to the town's growth and the demand for top-tier leisure facilities. The club will be a fantastic asset for the local community, promoting health, wellness, and social interaction."
This new development underscores David Lloyd Clubs' confidence in the UK market and its strategy of investing in high-quality, family-focused facilities that cater to the evolving demands of modern consumers.
