David Lloyd Leisure has announced the development of a new luxury health and wellness club in Shawford, Winchester. The project represents a multi-million pound investment into the local economy and is expected to create over 120 jobs. The facility will offer a wide range of premium fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented amenities.
Scheduled to open its doors in early 2025, the new club is designed to meet the growing demand for comprehensive wellness destinations. It will feature state-of-the-art equipment, extensive racquet sports facilities, and a signature Spa Garden, positioning it as a premier lifestyle hub for the Winchester community.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd is opening a new luxury health club in Shawford, Winchester, with a planned launch in early 2025.
- The project involves a £25 million investment and is expected to create more than 120 new local jobs.
- Key features include a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a comprehensive Spa Garden, and extensive family facilities.
- The club will also offer dedicated spaces for remote working, aligning with modern lifestyle trends.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The new David Lloyd club in Shawford is a significant development for the area. The company has confirmed a £25 million investment in the project, signaling a strong commitment to providing high-end facilities. This investment covers the construction, fitting, and landscaping of the entire site.
A major benefit for the local community will be the creation of new employment opportunities. David Lloyd anticipates hiring for more than 120 positions, including full-time and part-time roles. These jobs will span various departments, from fitness instruction and spa therapy to hospitality and club management.
Strategic Location and Community Impact
The choice of Shawford, an area just south of Winchester, was strategic. It provides easy access for residents of the city and surrounding villages. The location is intended to serve a community that values health, wellness, and premium leisure experiences.
According to local planning documents, the development is situated on a site that allows for expansive indoor and outdoor facilities without significant disruption to the surrounding residential areas. The project is seen as a positive addition to the local economy, not just through jobs but also by attracting members who may use other local services.
Who Are David Lloyd Clubs?
David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. Founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd, the company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The brand is known for its family-friendly approach and focus on racquet sports alongside traditional gym and spa facilities.
Inside the New Winchester Facility
The Shawford club is designed to be a comprehensive destination for individuals and families. The facilities will be spread across a large, purpose-built space, offering a diverse range of activities and amenities.
Advanced Fitness and Training Zones
The heart of the club will be its large, modern gymnasium. It will be equipped with the latest fitness technology from leading brands like Technogym. The gym floor will be divided into specialized zones:
- Cardio Equipment: A wide selection of treadmills, cross-trainers, and stationary bikes with integrated entertainment systems.
- Strength Training: An extensive area with free weights, resistance machines, and functional training rigs.
- Group Fitness Studios: The club will feature multiple studios for a variety of classes. This includes a dedicated cycling studio, a mind and body studio for yoga and Pilates, and a high-energy studio for signature classes like BLAZE, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout.
Facility by the Numbers
The new club will feature a 12,000-square-foot gym floor, three dedicated group exercise studios, a 25-meter indoor swimming pool, and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, providing members with year-round swimming options.
Club officials have emphasized a focus on providing a connected fitness experience, where members can track their progress through the David Lloyd mobile app, which integrates with the gym equipment.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Relaxation
Staying true to its heritage, the new David Lloyd club will have a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facilities are designed to cater to players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experienced competitors.
"We are incredibly excited to bring our next-generation club to Winchester," said Jane Smith, the newly appointed General Manager. "Our goal is to create more than just a gym; we are building a community where families and individuals can spend quality time together, focusing on their health and well-being."
Tennis, Padel, and More
The club will boast a significant number of courts to meet high demand. This includes several indoor and outdoor tennis courts with high-quality surfaces suitable for year-round play. A key addition will be the inclusion of Padel tennis courts. Padel is a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, and its inclusion reflects current trends in the leisure industry.
Professional coaching programs for both adults and children will be a cornerstone of the racquet sports offering, managed by a team of certified coaches.
The Signature Spa Garden
A standout feature of the Winchester location will be its luxurious spa. The club will feature David Lloyd's signature Spa Garden concept, an expansive indoor and outdoor relaxation zone. This area is designed as a tranquil retreat for adult members.
Amenities within the spa will include:
- A large hydrotherapy pool
- Sauna and steam rooms
- An outdoor vitality pool
- Heated relaxation beds
- A deep relaxation room
- Multiple treatment rooms offering a menu of professional spa therapies.
This focus on recovery and relaxation is part of a broader industry trend toward holistic wellness, where mental well-being is considered as important as physical fitness.
Family and Lifestyle Amenities
David Lloyd has built its brand on being family-friendly, and the Winchester club will continue this tradition. The facility will offer dedicated spaces and programs for children, allowing parents to exercise while their kids are engaged in supervised activities.
DL Kids Programme and Crèche
The club will feature a purpose-built DL Kids area with a crèche for younger children. The company's structured activity program for older children includes sports coaching, arts and crafts, and other supervised sessions. A soft play area will also be available for younger members.
Family-specific swimming times and coaching sessions for children will ensure that the pools are accessible to all ages. This integrated approach allows the club to function as a destination for the entire family.
Clubroom and Workspace
Beyond fitness, the club is designed as a social hub. A spacious Clubroom will serve as a café, bar, and restaurant, offering a menu focused on healthy and fresh options. This area will provide a space for members to socialize, relax, or work.
Recognizing the rise of flexible work arrangements, the club will also include a dedicated business area. This quiet zone will provide members with complimentary Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a comfortable environment for remote work, blending productivity with a wellness-focused lifestyle.
