David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £33 million health and wellness club in Cricklewood, North London, marking a significant investment in the city's leisure market. The new facility, built on the site of a former Virgin Active, introduces a wide range of premium amenities and has created over 80 new jobs in the local community.
The club aims to provide a comprehensive wellness experience for families and professionals, featuring advanced fitness equipment, extensive spa facilities, and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. This opening is part of the company's broader strategy to enhance its portfolio of premium health clubs across Europe.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure invested £33 million to develop its new club in Cricklewood, North London.
- The facility includes a state-of-the-art gym, a luxury spa, multiple swimming pools, and Padel tennis courts.
- The project has generated more than 80 new full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- The club offers dedicated spaces for families, children, and remote workers.
A Major Investment in North London
David Lloyd Leisure has completed one of its most ambitious projects to date with the launch of its Cricklewood club. The £33 million investment was used to completely redevelop the former Virgin Active site on Cricklewood Lane, transforming it into a modern, high-end wellness destination.
The development underscores the company's confidence in the demand for premium health and fitness services in urban areas. The project involved extensive construction and refurbishment to meet the brand's high standards for facilities and member experience.
Community Impact and Job Creation
A significant outcome of this investment is its positive impact on the local economy. The opening has resulted in the creation of over 80 new jobs, ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and operational staff.
This provides a welcome boost to employment in the Borough of Barnet. The company focused on recruiting from the local area to ensure the club is integrated into the community it serves.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £33 million
- New Jobs Created: 80+
- Outdoor Pool Length: 25 metres
- Indoor Pool Length: 20 metres
- Group Classes Weekly: 130+
Comprehensive Facilities for Wellness and Fitness
The new David Lloyd club offers a vast array of facilities designed to cater to a wide range of health and wellness needs. The centerpiece is a large, modern gym equipped with the latest fitness technology from leading brands.
Members have access to a variety of workout zones, including areas for strength training, cardio, and functional fitness. According to the company, the layout is designed to provide an efficient and motivating environment for all fitness levels.
Advanced Spa and Relaxation Areas
A key feature of the Cricklewood location is its extensive spa, branded as the 'Spa Retreat'. This area is designed to offer members a place for relaxation and recovery.
The spa includes a range of hydrotherapy pools, a Himalayan salt sauna, a citrus steam room, and an ice cave. These facilities are part of a growing trend in the wellness industry that emphasizes holistic health, combining physical fitness with mental well-being.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym. We wanted to build a premium destination where members can focus on their physical and mental wellbeing, spend time with their families, and connect with other members."
Swimming and Racquet Sports
The club features both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The 25-metre outdoor heated pool allows for year-round swimming, while a 20-metre indoor pool provides a dedicated space for lessons and lane swimming. A separate indoor splash pool is available for children.
In addition to traditional offerings, the club has invested in the fast-growing sport of Padel. It features three new Padel courts alongside multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts, catering to the strong demand for racquet sports in the UK.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It has seen a surge in popularity across Europe and the UK due to its social nature and accessibility for players of all ages and skill levels. David Lloyd's inclusion of Padel courts reflects a strategic move to attract new members and stay current with fitness trends.
A Focus on Family and Flexible Work
David Lloyd has long positioned itself as a family-friendly brand, and the Cricklewood club continues this tradition. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids area with a variety of activities and coaching sessions for children.
A crèche service is also available, allowing parents to use the club's facilities while their children are cared for by qualified staff. This integrated approach makes the club an attractive option for families seeking a single location for fitness and leisure.
Supporting Modern Work Habits
Recognizing the shift towards remote and flexible working, the club incorporates a spacious 'Clubroom' with a business area. This co-working space, known as 'Clubroom Plus', provides a comfortable environment for members who need to work or take meetings.
This feature transforms the club from a purely fitness-oriented space into a multi-purpose hub, blending work, wellness, and social life. It caters to professionals and entrepreneurs looking for an alternative to a traditional office or working from home.
