David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest luxury health and wellness facility in the Shawford area of Winchester, representing a significant £14 million investment in the local community. The new club, which began welcoming members this week, is expected to create approximately 100 new full-time and part-time jobs.
The state-of-the-art destination offers a comprehensive range of fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented amenities, marking a key expansion for the premium leisure group in the Hampshire region.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £14 million health club in Winchester.
- The facility has created around 100 new jobs in the local area.
- Key features include a luxury spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and extensive tennis facilities.
- The club is designed to cater to individuals and families with dedicated zones for adults and children.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The development of the Winchester club is part of David Lloyd's broader strategy to expand its portfolio of premium health and racquets clubs across the UK. The £14 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the growing demand for high-quality wellness and leisure services.
Construction on the site, located just off the M3 motorway, took approximately 18 months to complete. The project involved transforming a previously undeveloped plot of land into a modern, multi-purpose leisure complex designed to meet high environmental and construction standards.
Background on David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure Group is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, serving more than 730,000 members. The company is known for its family-friendly approach and extensive racquets facilities.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Amenities
The new Winchester club boasts an impressive array of facilities spread across its expansive grounds. Members will have access to a wide range of health and fitness options tailored to various interests and fitness levels.
Central to the offering is the advanced gym, which features the latest equipment from leading brands. This includes dedicated zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness, ensuring a comprehensive workout experience for all members.
Comprehensive Fitness and Leisure Options
The club's facilities are designed to provide a holistic wellness experience. Key amenities available to members include:
- Indoor and Outdoor Swimming Pools: A 25-meter indoor pool for lane swimming and a heated outdoor pool for seasonal use.
- Extensive Racquets Courts: Multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts, along with padel and squash courts.
- Luxury Spa: A world-class spa area featuring a sauna, steam room, hydro pool, and relaxation zones.
- Group Exercise Studios: Three dedicated studios for classes such as yoga, Pilates, cycling, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
- Clubroom and Restaurant: A spacious social area with an indoor restaurant and an outdoor patio for dining.
Facility by the Numbers
The new club includes over 120 pieces of gym equipment, 10 tennis courts (5 indoor, 5 outdoor), and offers more than 100 group exercise classes per week.
Economic Impact and Community Focus
The opening of the new club is a significant economic event for Winchester. The creation of approximately 100 jobs provides a boost to the local employment market, with roles ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff.
The company has emphasized its commitment to hiring from the local community. According to a statement, over 75% of the new team members have been recruited from Winchester and the surrounding Hampshire area.
"We are incredibly excited to bring the David Lloyd Clubs experience to Winchester," said Sarah Matthews, the new club's General Manager. "Our goal is not just to be a gym, but a community hub where families and individuals can spend quality time focusing on their health and wellbeing. The response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive."
Family-Friendly Design
A key aspect of the David Lloyd brand is its focus on family. The Winchester club incorporates this philosophy with dedicated facilities for younger members. This includes a DL Kids club, a soft-play area, and specific family swim times.
The club also offers coaching programs for children in tennis and swimming, reinforcing its role as a destination for the entire family. The on-site restaurant features a kids' menu, and the overall layout is designed to be welcoming for members of all ages.
Leadership Vision for the New Club
Management has expressed a clear vision for the club to become a premier wellness destination in the South of England. The design and amenities are intended to compete at the highest end of the market, offering a level of service and quality that sets it apart.
Glenn Earlam, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure, commented on the opening. "Winchester is a fantastic location for our latest club. We have invested heavily to ensure our members have access to the best facilities, expert coaches, and a welcoming environment. This opening is a testament to the hard work of our entire team and our commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles."
The club's opening marks another step in the company's strategic growth. With a strong membership model and a focus on premium experiences, David Lloyd continues to solidify its position as a leader in the European leisure sector.
