David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness facility in Cricklewood, North London, following a significant £33 million investment. The new club, which is the company's 103rd location in the United Kingdom, has created over 100 new jobs in the local community and offers a wide range of premium fitness and relaxation amenities.
The facility is designed to cater to families and individuals, integrating state-of-the-art equipment with extensive spa facilities and dedicated spaces for children. This opening marks a key part of David Lloyd's ongoing strategy to expand its presence and upgrade its portfolio across the country, reflecting growing consumer demand for comprehensive wellness experiences.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure invested £33 million to develop the new Cricklewood club.
- The opening has generated more than 100 new full-time and part-time jobs.
- The facility includes a 100+ station gym, multiple swimming pools, and a luxury spa retreat.
- This expansion is part of the company's broader investment plan for the UK market.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Cricklewood Lane club represents a substantial financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure. The £33 million project underscores the company's confidence in the premium health and fitness market, even as economic conditions remain challenging for many consumer-facing businesses.
This investment has transformed the site into a modern, multi-faceted wellness destination. According to the company, the goal was to create a 'third place' for members—a comfortable and engaging environment away from home and work. The project's completion brings a high-end leisure facility to an area undergoing significant regeneration.
Job Creation and Local Economic Impact
A primary benefit of the new club is its positive effect on the local economy. The creation of over 100 permanent jobs provides a significant boost to employment in the Brent Cross area. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff, offering diverse career opportunities.
The club is expected to attract members from across North London, potentially increasing footfall for other local businesses. This ripple effect is a common outcome of large-scale leisure developments, which can act as anchor institutions within a community.
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The Cricklewood club is equipped with a comprehensive array of fitness and wellness features designed to appeal to a broad demographic. The facilities are spread across a spacious and modern architectural design, emphasizing natural light and high-quality materials.
Facility by the Numbers
- 100+ state-of-the-art gym stations
- 4 dedicated group exercise studios
- 20m indoor swimming pool
- 25m heated outdoor swimming pool
- 100+ classes offered per week
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is the advanced gymnasium. It features the latest equipment from leading manufacturers, covering everything from cardiovascular machines and strength training rigs to functional fitness zones. This allows members to pursue a wide variety of training styles under one roof.
Extensive Class Timetable and Specialist Studios
In addition to the main gym floor, the club boasts four purpose-built studios for group exercise. These spaces are designed for specific types of activity, including high-intensity workouts, mind-body classes like yoga and Pilates, and indoor cycling.
The club offers more than 100 classes each week, providing members with significant choice and flexibility. Signature David Lloyd classes, such as Blaze and Rhythm, are featured prominently on the schedule, delivered by a team of professional instructors.
What is BLAZE?
BLAZE is one of David Lloyd's signature high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes. It combines cardiovascular training on treadmills, strength training with weights, and combat-inspired exercises. The class is held in a dedicated studio with dynamic lighting and upbeat music to create an immersive experience.
Focus on Relaxation and Family Amenities
Beyond traditional fitness, the Cricklewood club places a strong emphasis on recovery and relaxation. A significant portion of the investment was allocated to the development of a luxurious spa area, designed as a sanctuary for members to unwind.
"Our new Cricklewood club is more than just a gym; it's a complete wellness destination. We've invested heavily in creating a premium environment where families can spend quality time together and individuals can focus on their physical and mental wellbeing."
The spa facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice cave, and heated relaxation beds. This 'Spa Retreat' is an adult-only space, providing a quiet and tranquil environment separate from the main club activities.
Catering to Families and Children
David Lloyd has long positioned itself as a family-friendly brand, and the Cricklewood location continues this tradition. The club includes dedicated amenities for younger members to ensure that families can enjoy the facilities together.
These features include:
- A dedicated DL Kids area with structured activities.
- Swimming lessons for various age groups.
- A family-friendly Clubroom for dining and socializing.
This approach allows parents to work out or relax while their children are engaged in supervised, age-appropriate activities, making the club a practical option for busy families.
Strategic Expansion in the UK Market
The opening of the Cricklewood club is part of a wider strategic initiative by David Lloyd Leisure to enhance its UK portfolio. The company has been actively investing in both new builds and the refurbishment of existing clubs to maintain its position in the premium end of the market.
According to industry analysis, the wellness sector has shown remarkable resilience, with consumers increasingly prioritizing health and wellbeing in their discretionary spending. David Lloyd's strategy appears aligned with this trend, focusing on high-quality, experience-led offerings rather than competing solely on price.
The company has indicated that further investments are planned for the coming years. This continued expansion reflects a long-term vision for growth within the UK, solidifying its status as one of the country's leading health and leisure operators.
