David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire, following a £15 million investment. The new club, which is the 103rd in the company's portfolio, is expected to create over 80 jobs and provide a wide range of premium health, wellness, and fitness amenities to the local community.
The state-of-the-art facility spans over 100,000 square feet and includes advanced gym equipment, multiple swimming pools, and extensive spa facilities. The opening marks a significant step in David Lloyd's ongoing expansion strategy across the UK, targeting areas with growing demand for comprehensive family-oriented leisure services.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £15 million in a new club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The new facility has created more than 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- The 100,000 sq ft club features indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, and extensive gym space.
- This opening is part of the company's broader strategy to expand its presence in key regional UK locations.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The new David Lloyd club in Bicester represents one of the most significant local investments in the leisure sector in recent years. The £15 million project was designed to offer a comprehensive wellness destination for individuals and families in the surrounding area. Construction was completed on schedule, with the facility now fully operational.
Company officials stated that Bicester was chosen due to its rapid growth and strategic location. The town's expanding population and strong transport links made it an ideal candidate for a premium leisure facility of this scale. The club aims to serve residents from Bicester and nearby towns, filling a gap in the market for high-end health and fitness services.
Facility by the Numbers
- Investment: £15 million
- Total Area: 100,000 square feet
- New Jobs: 80+
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
Community and Economic Impact
The creation of over 80 jobs is a notable benefit for the local economy. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. According to the company, a significant portion of these positions have been filled by local residents, providing stable employment and career development opportunities.
Local council members have welcomed the investment, highlighting its positive contribution to both the local economy and public health infrastructure. The facility is expected to attract new members from a wide radius, potentially increasing footfall for other local businesses.
Inside the New Bicester Club
The Bicester club has been equipped with the latest fitness technology and amenities. The expansive gym floor includes dedicated zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members have access to a wide array of equipment from leading brands, as well as digital fitness platforms that offer personalized workout tracking.
In addition to the main gym, the facility offers several specialized studios for group classes. These include a high-energy cycling studio, a mind-and-body studio for yoga and Pilates, and a Blaze studio for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts. The club plans to offer more than 100 group classes per week.
"Our goal was to create a first-class destination that caters to the entire family's wellness needs. From our state-of-the-art gym to our luxurious spa and kids' facilities, we believe the Bicester club sets a new standard for leisure in the region." - Michelle Howard, General Manager
Focus on Family and Relaxation
A key feature of the new club is its emphasis on family-friendly activities. The DL Kids facility offers a dedicated space for children with structured activities, sports coaching, and a soft play area. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are supervised.
The club also features a Clubroom and restaurant, providing a social space for members to work, relax, or dine. The menu focuses on fresh, healthy options, catering to a wellness-conscious clientele. An outdoor patio area offers additional seating during warmer months.
David Lloyd's UK Expansion
David Lloyd Leisure operates 103 clubs in the UK and a further 30 across mainland Europe. The company has been actively pursuing expansion since the post-pandemic resurgence in demand for health and wellness services. Its strategy often involves building large, multi-purpose clubs in affluent suburban areas and growing towns, rather than city centers.
Spa and Wellness Facilities
A significant portion of the investment was allocated to the development of a luxury spa retreat. The spa area is designed to provide a tranquil environment for relaxation and recovery. It is separate from the main fitness areas to ensure a peaceful atmosphere for all users.
The facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a eucalyptus-scented steam room, and an ice fountain. There are also heated relaxation beds and an outdoor spa garden. This comprehensive offering is designed to compete with dedicated day spas and positions the club as a premium wellness destination.
Swimming and Racquet Sports
The club's swimming facilities are a central attraction. It boasts a 25-meter indoor lap pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The club offers swimming lessons for all ages and abilities, from infants to adults, as well as aqua aerobics classes.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the Bicester location includes five championship-standard tennis courts, three of which are indoors for all-weather play. The club also has badminton and squash courts available. Professional coaching programs are offered for both children and adults, catering to beginners and experienced players alike.
Future Outlook and Membership
The opening of the Bicester club is part of David Lloyd's long-term vision for growth in the UK. The company continues to identify new locations for development, focusing on areas with favorable demographics and a lack of premium leisure options. The success of the Bicester model could inform the design and features of future clubs.
Membership sales for the new club reportedly exceeded initial targets, indicating strong local demand. The company offers a tiered membership structure, with options for individuals, couples, and families. While positioned at a premium price point, the all-inclusive nature of the facilities is a key part of its value proposition.
As the wellness industry continues to grow, facilities like the David Lloyd Bicester club are well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing consumer focus on health, fitness, and mental well-being. The club's blend of fitness, relaxation, and social spaces reflects a modern approach to leisure that goes beyond a traditional gym.
