David Lloyd Clubs has opened a new £12.5 million health and wellness facility in Rugby, Warwickshire. The 100,000-square-foot club is the company's 103rd location in the United Kingdom and is expected to create approximately 80 new local jobs.
The new centre, located just off the A426 Leicester Road, features a wide range of fitness and leisure amenities. These include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a state-of-the-art gym, and extensive spa facilities. The opening marks a significant investment in the region's wellness infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £12.5 million in a new health club in Rugby, Warwickshire.
- The new facility spans 100,000 square feet and is the company's 103rd UK club.
- It is projected to create around 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- Amenities include multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, a large gym, spa facilities, and a dedicated kids' zone.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The development of the Rugby club represents a substantial financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure, the parent company. The £12.5 million investment underscores the company's strategy of expanding its footprint in key regional hubs across the UK.
Construction of the facility took approximately 18 months to complete. The project focused on creating a comprehensive health and wellness destination for individuals and families in Rugby and the surrounding communities. The club aims to provide a premium experience that combines fitness, relaxation, and social activities.
Strategic Location and Accessibility
The club's location was chosen for its accessibility. Situated near a major arterial road, it is designed to serve residents from Rugby, Lutterworth, and nearby villages. Ample on-site parking is provided to accommodate the expected membership volume.
Company officials have stated that the new location fills a gap in their regional network. According to a company spokesperson, market research identified strong demand for a premium, family-oriented health club in the Warwickshire area.
Comprehensive Facilities and Amenities
The new David Lloyd Club in Rugby offers an extensive array of facilities designed to cater to a diverse membership base. The club is structured to support various fitness goals, from casual exercise to competitive sports training.
Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a large, modern gymnasium. The gym is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands, including a wide selection of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a dedicated free weights area.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club includes several specialized fitness zones:
- Group Fitness Studios: Three studios will host a timetable of over 130 classes per week, including yoga, Pilates, High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), and dance-based workouts.
- A BLAZE Studio: This is a signature David Lloyd offering, providing a boutique-style HIIT class that combines cardio, strength, and combat training.
- A Cyclone Studio: A dedicated indoor cycling studio featuring advanced bikes and an immersive audio-visual experience.
Racquet Sports and Swimming Pools
True to the brand's heritage, the new club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facility includes three indoor tennis courts and three outdoor courts, all built to professional standards. The club will also offer coaching programs for all ages and skill levels.
Pool Specifications
The club features a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower indoor children's pool. An additional 20-meter heated outdoor pool allows for year-round swimming and relaxation.
The swimming facilities are complemented by a comprehensive 'learn to swim' program for both children and adults. Aqua aerobics classes will also be a regular feature on the activity schedule.
Focus on Wellness and Family
Beyond traditional fitness, the Rugby club is designed to be a hub for relaxation and family activities. The spa facilities are a key component of this approach.
The 'Spa Garden' includes a hydro pool, a sauna, a steam room, and heated relaxation beds. It is designed as a tranquil retreat for adult members to unwind and de-stress. This focus on mental well-being is a growing trend in the leisure industry.
"Our goal is not just to build a gym, but to create a community where families can spend quality time together while pursuing a healthy lifestyle. The new Rugby club embodies this vision with its blend of high-end fitness equipment, relaxation spaces, and dedicated family areas."
For families, the club offers a dedicated DL Kids zone. This area provides supervised activities for children, including sports, arts and crafts, and games. The provision of childcare and children's activities allows parents to use the club's other facilities with peace of mind.
A 'Clubroom' serves as the social heart of the facility. It features a café, restaurant, and bar area, offering healthy meals and drinks. This space is designed for members to socialize, work remotely, or relax after a workout.
Economic Impact and Community Engagement
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. The creation of approximately 80 jobs is a significant contribution to local employment. Roles range from fitness instructors and lifeguards to hospitality and management positions.
The company has stated its commitment to hiring from the local community where possible. Training programs will be provided for new staff to ensure high standards of service and safety across all departments.
David Lloyd Leisure Group Overview
David Lloyd Leisure is Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure group. It currently operates 133 clubs, with 103 in the UK and a further 30 across mainland Europe. The company was founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd.
The club also plans to engage with local schools and community groups. Potential partnerships could involve offering facility access for sports programs or hosting community wellness events. According to company statements, building strong local ties is a key part of their operational strategy for new locations.
The long-term economic benefit also includes sourcing supplies and services from local businesses, further integrating the club into the regional economy. The investment signals confidence in Rugby's growth and its attractiveness as a place for business and leisure development.
