David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its new flagship club in Manchester, a state-of-the-art facility developed with a £20 million investment. The new site, located in the TraffordCity area, is expected to create over 150 permanent jobs and introduces an extensive range of premium health, wellness, and family-oriented amenities to the region.
The opening marks a significant step in the company's strategy to expand its premium offerings in major UK urban centers. The club spans over 100,000 square feet and features one of the North West's most advanced spa retreats, extensive fitness areas, and comprehensive facilities for racquet sports, catering to a growing demand for integrated wellness experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: David Lloyd Leisure invested £20 million into the new Manchester TraffordCity club.
- Job Creation: The new facility has created more than 150 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- Extensive Facilities: The club includes a large luxury spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, 10 tennis courts, and advanced gym equipment.
- Strategic Expansion: This opening is part of David Lloyd's strategy to enhance its presence in key metropolitan areas across the UK and Europe.
A New Benchmark for Health and Leisure
The Manchester TraffordCity club represents a new standard for David Lloyd Leisure. Company officials have stated the goal was to create a comprehensive destination for health, family, and relaxation, moving beyond the traditional gym model. The project's completion is a key part of the company's post-pandemic growth plan, focusing on high-end experiences that members cannot replicate at home.
Construction on the site began approximately 24 months ago, transforming a previously undeveloped plot into a modern architectural landmark. The design prioritizes natural light and open spaces to create a welcoming environment. According to the company, the club is projected to serve several thousand members from across Greater Manchester.
Background on David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The company has focused on a premium, family-friendly model that integrates fitness, racquet sports, swimming, and social activities. This new Manchester club is one of its largest single investments in a new UK site in the last decade.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The £20 million investment is evident in the scale and quality of the amenities offered. The club is designed with distinct zones to cater to different member needs, from intense workouts to tranquil relaxation.
The Spa Retreat and Aquatic Facilities
A central feature of the new club is its expansive Spa Retreat. This area is significantly larger than those in older David Lloyd locations and includes a variety of hydrotherapy pools, a crystal steam room, a Himalayan salt sauna, and an ice cave. The spa also features an outdoor spa garden with a sauna and relaxation zones.
"We wanted to create a true sanctuary for our members," said Michelle Howard, the new club's General Manager. "The Spa Retreat is designed to be a space where people can disconnect from daily stress and focus entirely on their well-being. It's more than just a facility; it's an experience."
In addition to the spa, the club boasts both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool. These are complemented by a separate indoor children's splash pool, reinforcing the club's family-centric approach.
Fitness and Racquet Sports
The fitness area is equipped with the latest technology from brands like Eleiko and Technogym. It includes a vast gym floor with dedicated zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. There are also three group exercise studios offering a timetable of over 120 classes per week, including the signature BLAZE high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class.
As a nod to its heritage, the club has a strong focus on racquet sports. It features:
- Five indoor tennis courts
- Five outdoor tennis courts
- Four badminton courts
- Two squash courts
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Area: 100,000+ square feet
- Total Investment: £20 million
- Jobs Created: 150+
- Tennis Courts: 10 (5 indoor, 5 outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 3 (indoor, outdoor, kids)
- Weekly Classes: 120+
Economic Impact and Community Integration
The opening of the David Lloyd club is a significant economic event for the TraffordCity area. The creation of 150 new jobs covers a range of roles, from fitness professionals and spa therapists to hospitality and maintenance staff. The company has emphasized its commitment to hiring from the local community.
The club is also expected to drive further footfall to the TraffordCity destination, which already includes major retail and entertainment venues. Local officials have welcomed the investment as a sign of confidence in the region's economic vitality.
Furthermore, David Lloyd plans to launch community outreach programs, including partnerships with local schools to promote sports and healthy living. The club's DL Kids program offers coaching and activities designed to encourage physical activity from a young age.
Strategic Vision for Future Growth
This flagship club is a blueprint for David Lloyd's future direction. The company is responding to a clear shift in consumer behavior, where individuals and families are seeking integrated lifestyle hubs that combine fitness, relaxation, and social interaction.
According to recent industry reports, the wellness market has seen sustained growth, with consumers willing to invest more in experiences that support their physical and mental health. The Manchester club's premium positioning and extensive amenities are designed to capture this segment of the market.
"Our investment in Manchester TraffordCity reflects our confidence in the growing demand for premium wellness experiences," stated Glenn Earlam, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure. "This is not just another gym; it is a destination. We are committed to providing our members with exceptional facilities and service, and this club sets a new standard for our brand and the industry."
The company has indicated that it will use the operational model and member feedback from the Manchester site to inform the design and development of future clubs across Europe. The focus will remain on large-scale, multi-faceted destinations in strategic locations with strong demographic profiles.
