David Lloyd Leisure has announced plans to build a new £25 million health and wellness club in Meridian Park. The development is expected to create approximately 150 new jobs and provide a wide range of premium fitness and leisure facilities for the community.
The new club, scheduled to open in early 2026, will be one of the company's flagship locations, featuring state-of-the-art equipment, multiple swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports facilities. This investment marks a significant addition to the area's amenities and local economy.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd is investing £25 million in a new health and wellness club in Meridian Park.
- The project is projected to generate around 150 full-time and part-time jobs.
- The facility will include indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, tennis and padel courts, and a large gym.
- Construction is set to begin later this year, with an expected opening in early 2026.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The planned £25 million facility represents a substantial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure to expand its presence and offer premium services to a growing suburban community. The club will be constructed on a 12-acre site at the edge of the Meridian Park development, making it easily accessible to local residents and those in surrounding areas.
Company officials state the new club is designed to be a comprehensive destination for families and individuals focused on health, fitness, and relaxation. The development plan was recently approved by the local council, which has welcomed the investment and the associated economic benefits.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
A primary benefit highlighted by both David Lloyd and local authorities is the creation of new jobs. The project is expected to generate approximately 150 new positions, ranging from management and fitness instruction to hospitality and maintenance roles.
"This new club is more than just a gym; it's a significant investment in the health and well-being of the Meridian Park community," said a fictional spokesperson for David Lloyd Leisure. "We are proud to be creating valuable local jobs and providing a world-class facility that families can enjoy for years to come."
Recruitment for key management positions is expected to begin in mid-2025, with hiring for all other roles to follow closer to the club's opening date. The company plans to host local job fairs to encourage applications from the surrounding community.
Extensive Facilities for Fitness and Leisure
The Meridian Park club will feature an extensive array of facilities designed to cater to a diverse range of interests and fitness levels. The design incorporates both indoor and outdoor spaces to provide year-round activities for members.
What is David Lloyd Leisure?
David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. Founded in 1982, the company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The clubs are known for their premium, family-friendly environments and a strong focus on racquet sports, swimming, and comprehensive gym facilities.
The main building will house a large, modern gymnasium with dedicated zones for various types of training. These zones will include areas for cardio, free weights, functional training, and group exercise studios for classes like yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Aquatics and Spa Amenities
A key attraction of the new club will be its aquatic facilities. The plans detail both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and a heated 20-meter outdoor pool for leisure and relaxation. A separate indoor splash pool for children is also included in the design.
Adjacent to the aquatic area will be the club's luxury spa. The spa will offer a range of amenities aimed at relaxation and recovery, including:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice fountain and experience showers
- Heated relaxation beds
- Treatment rooms for massages and other therapies
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Activities
Staying true to its heritage, the new David Lloyd club will place a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facility will feature multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts, ensuring play is possible in all weather conditions. The courts will be built to professional standards, suitable for both casual play and competitive matches.
In addition to tennis, the club will feature a dedicated Padel super-centre with four courts. Padel is a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, and its inclusion reflects the company's strategy of adopting modern fitness trends.
Family-Oriented Spaces
The club is designed with families in mind. A dedicated kids' zone will offer a range of activities, including soft play areas and structured classes for different age groups. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are supervised in a safe and engaging environment.
Furthermore, the club will include a 'Clubroom' restaurant and lounge area. This space will serve as a social hub for members, offering a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. An outdoor patio area will provide space for al fresco dining during warmer months.
Community and Environmental Considerations
The development process has included consultations with local community groups and environmental assessments. David Lloyd has committed to incorporating sustainable practices into the club's design and operation. These measures include using energy-efficient building materials, installing solar panels on the roof, and implementing a comprehensive water conservation system for the pools and grounds.
The landscaping plan focuses on preserving existing green spaces where possible and planting native species to enhance local biodiversity. The club's location within Meridian Park is also designed to encourage members to walk or cycle, with ample bike storage and pedestrian access points.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. The company anticipates a build time of approximately 15 months, targeting an official opening in the first quarter of 2026. Further updates on membership options and founding member offers are expected to be released in late 2025.