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David Lloyd Club Opens New £11 Million Facility in Rugby

David Lloyd Leisure has opened its 103rd UK club in Rugby, Warwickshire, an £11 million facility creating over 80 jobs with extensive fitness and spa amenities.

Benjamin Carter
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Benjamin Carter

Benjamin Carter is a corporate finance correspondent for Crezzio, specializing in shareholder activism, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate governance. He reports on the strategic battles shaping public companies.

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David Lloyd Club Opens New £11 Million Facility in Rugby

David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and racquets club in Rugby, Warwickshire, following an £11 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's 103rd club in the United Kingdom, is expected to create over 80 new jobs and provide a comprehensive range of fitness and wellness services to the local community.

The state-of-the-art club is situated on the redeveloped Rugby Radio Station site, a key area for local growth. It features extensive facilities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a large gym, and dedicated spaces for families and remote workers.

Key Takeaways

  • David Lloyd Leisure has invested £11 million in a new club in Rugby, Warwickshire.
  • The facility is the 103rd David Lloyd Club in the UK and has created more than 80 jobs.
  • Key features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor pools, multiple racquets courts, and a luxury spa.
  • The club is part of the broader redevelopment of the historic Rugby Radio Station site.

A Major Investment in Local Wellness

The opening of the Rugby club marks a significant expansion for David Lloyd Leisure, one of the leading health and wellness groups in Europe. The £11 million project underscores the company's commitment to providing premium fitness facilities across the UK.

Construction of the expansive club was managed by the main contractor, Pellikaan Construction. The development aims to cater to a wide demographic, from serious athletes to families seeking recreational activities. According to company statements, the goal is to create a community hub centered around health and social well-being.

The new jobs created span various roles, including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and maintenance. This provides a notable boost to the local Rugby economy, offering employment opportunities in the growing leisure sector.

By the Numbers: The New Rugby Club

  • Investment: £11 million
  • Jobs Created: Over 80
  • Total UK Clubs: 103
  • Gym Size: 100+ stations
  • Swimming Pools: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
  • Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)

Comprehensive Facilities and Amenities

The Rugby David Lloyd Club is designed to be an all-encompassing destination for health, sport, and relaxation. Its extensive range of amenities sets it apart from traditional gyms.

Fitness and Training Areas

At the core of the club is a large, modern gymnasium equipped with over 100 stations. This includes the latest cardio machines, weightlifting equipment, and functional training zones. The gym floor is designed with an open-plan layout to accommodate various workout styles.

In addition to the main gym, there are three dedicated group exercise studios. These will host a packed schedule of classes, including high-energy options like Blaze, which combines cardio, strength, and combat training. Other classes offered include yoga, Pilates, and indoor cycling.

What is BLAZE?

BLAZE is one of David Lloyd's signature high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes. It is conducted in a purpose-built studio with dynamic lighting and energetic music. The workout is a 45-minute session that cycles through treadmills, weight benches, and punch/kick bags, with participants wearing heart rate monitors to track their effort in real-time.

Swimming and Spa Facilities

A major highlight of the new club is its extensive aquatic offering. Members have access to a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower indoor family pool. During warmer months, a 20-meter heated outdoor pool provides a resort-like experience.

"We are thrilled to bring our first-class facilities to Rugby. This club represents a significant investment in the health and wellbeing of the local community, offering a place for families and individuals to relax, socialise, and achieve their fitness goals."

Adjacent to the pools is the luxury spa area. This 'Spa Retreat' includes a hydro-pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds, offering a tranquil environment for members to unwind after a workout.

Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Activities

Staying true to its heritage, the David Lloyd Club in Rugby places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facility boasts three indoor and two outdoor tennis courts, allowing for year-round play. The club also features badminton and squash courts.

Coaching programs are available for all ages and skill levels, managed by accredited professionals. These programs aim to nurture talent and encourage participation in racquet sports from a young age.

The club is also designed to be family-friendly. A dedicated DL Kids area provides children with space for activities and games, while a soft-play frame offers entertainment for younger children. The club runs a coaching program for kids covering swimming and tennis, alongside after-school and holiday clubs.

A Modern Space for Work and Socializing

Recognizing the shift towards flexible working, the club includes a dedicated 'Clubroom' for adults. This area provides a comfortable space for members to work remotely, with high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a quiet environment.

The Clubroom also serves as a social hub, featuring a restaurant and bar that serves a full menu of meals, snacks, and drinks. This integrated approach encourages members to use the club not just for exercise but also for work and social gatherings.

The opening in Rugby is part of a wider strategy by David Lloyd Leisure to integrate its clubs more deeply into the daily lives of its members. By combining premium fitness equipment with facilities for work, relaxation, and family time, the company aims to create a comprehensive lifestyle destination.