Health and wellness giant David Lloyd Clubs has announced a landmark £50 million investment to build a new flagship facility in Manchester. The development, set to be one of the largest in the company's portfolio, signals a major push into integrated wellness, family leisure, and flexible working spaces.
The new club, located in the TraffordCity area, is expected to create over 150 jobs and will introduce a range of next-generation amenities designed to cater to post-pandemic lifestyle shifts. Construction is slated to begin later this year, with an anticipated opening in the third quarter of 2025.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs is investing £50 million in a new state-of-the-art facility in Manchester.
- The project will create more than 150 new full-time and part-time jobs in the region.
- The club will feature an expansive spa, dedicated co-working spaces, and advanced family activity zones.
- The opening is scheduled for Q3 2025, reflecting a long-term strategy in the UK wellness market.
A New Benchmark for UK Leisure Facilities
The planned 150,000-square-foot facility represents a significant evolution of the traditional health club model. Company officials have detailed plans that go far beyond a standard gym, positioning the site as a comprehensive lifestyle destination.
Central to the design is a sprawling luxury spa, branded as the 'Spa Retreat'. This area will include a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas, steam rooms, and an outdoor spa garden. The inclusion of such extensive relaxation facilities highlights a growing consumer demand for wellness services that encompass mental and physical recuperation.
In addition to the spa, the club will house both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, ensuring year-round access for members. The fitness floor itself will be equipped with the latest smart technology, allowing members to track workouts and connect with personal trainers seamlessly.
Manchester Flagship By The Numbers
- Total Investment: £50 million
- Facility Size: 150,000 sq ft
- New Jobs: Over 150
- Racquet Courts: 12 (including tennis and padel)
- Pools: 3 (Indoor, Outdoor, Hydrotherapy)
Integrating Work, Wellness, and Family Life
A key innovation at the Manchester site is the introduction of a dedicated co-working space named 'Club-Office'. This feature directly addresses the rise of remote and hybrid work models, offering members a high-quality environment to work, network, and then transition directly into their fitness or relaxation routines.
The space is planned to include quiet work zones, meeting rooms, and high-speed internet access. This move is seen as an attempt to capture a new market segment of professionals seeking a better work-life balance away from the traditional office or home setup.
The Evolution of the Health Club
Modern health clubs are increasingly transforming from simple gyms into multi-purpose lifestyle hubs. The pandemic accelerated this trend, with consumers now seeking venues that combine fitness, relaxation, social activities, and even work facilities. This integrated approach aims to create a 'third space' for members, distinct from home and the office.
Families are also a primary focus of the new development. The 'DL Kids' area is set to be the largest in the company's network, featuring structured activities, educational play zones, and a soft-play structure. The goal is to provide a comprehensive offering that allows parents to work or work out while their children are engaged in supervised activities.
A Statement of Confidence in the Market
The scale of the £50 million investment is a strong indicator of David Lloyd's confidence in the long-term health of the UK's leisure and wellness industry. While the sector faced challenges during the pandemic, the subsequent rebound has been driven by a heightened public awareness of physical and mental health.
"This isn't just another club for us; it's a statement about the future of wellness and community living," stated Glenn Earlam, CEO of David Lloyd Clubs. "We are creating a destination where families, professionals, and individuals can connect, work, and prioritize their health in a premium environment. Manchester is a dynamic, growing city, and we believe this facility will set a new standard for the industry."
The choice of TraffordCity is strategic, placing the club within a major retail and leisure destination that already attracts significant footfall. The development is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy, both through direct employment and by attracting visitors to the area.
The club will also feature a significant number of racquet courts, including tennis and the increasingly popular sport of padel. This commitment to racquet sports continues the brand's heritage while adapting to new sporting trends. A large café and restaurant area will serve as a social hub for members, further reinforcing the club's community-focused model.
