David Lloyd Leisure has announced the development of a new £11.5 million club in Bicester, Oxfordshire, set to open in the summer of 2024. The project is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and provide a wide range of health, wellness, and leisure facilities for the local community.
The new club, located at the Wendlebury Interchange, represents a significant investment in the region's wellness infrastructure. It will feature state-of-the-art amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive fitness areas, catering to individuals and families.
Key Takeaways
- New Facility: David Lloyd Clubs is opening a new location in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- Investment: The project is valued at £11.5 million.
- Job Creation: Approximately 80 full-time and part-time positions will be created.
- Opening Date: The club is scheduled to open in Summer 2024.
- Amenities: The facility will include pools, a spa, a gym, tennis courts, and family-oriented spaces.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The development of the Bicester David Lloyd Club marks a substantial commitment to enhancing the health and lifestyle options available to residents in North Oxfordshire. The £11.5 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the area's growth and the increasing local demand for premium wellness services.
Construction is already underway at the site near the A41, which was chosen for its accessibility to Bicester and surrounding communities. The club aims to become a central hub for fitness and social activity, offering a comprehensive suite of services under one roof.
Background on David Lloyd Leisure
David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. Founded in 1982, the company operates over 100 clubs in the UK and more than 30 across mainland Europe. The brand is known for its family-friendly approach and high-quality facilities, combining fitness, relaxation, and social spaces.
Michelle Whipp, the newly appointed General Manager for the Bicester club, commented on the project's goals. She brings over 15 years of experience within the David Lloyd organization to her new role.
"We are thrilled to bring the David Lloyd Clubs experience to Bicester. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where members can focus on their physical and mental wellbeing. This club will be more than just a gym; it will be a community space for families and individuals to relax, socialize, and lead a healthier lifestyle."
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Services
The Bicester club is designed to meet a wide range of fitness and leisure needs. The facility will span several thousand square meters and will house an array of modern equipment and purpose-built spaces.
Key Amenities at the Bicester Club
Members will have access to a comprehensive list of features, including:
- Swimming Pools: A 25-meter indoor pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming.
- Spa Facilities: A luxury spa retreat with a sauna, steam room, hydro pool, and relaxation areas.
- Fitness and Gym: A large, open-plan gymnasium with the latest cardio and strength-training equipment from leading brands.
- Group Exercise Studios: Multiple studios will host a diverse schedule of classes, including yoga, Pilates, cycling, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
- Racquet Sports: Several indoor and outdoor tennis courts will be available for booking and coaching sessions.
Facility by the Numbers
The new club will feature over 100 pieces of gym equipment, offer more than 80 group exercise classes per week, and include five dedicated tennis courts. The total development area covers approximately 4,500 square meters of indoor space.
In addition to the core fitness offerings, the club will feature a dedicated business lounge area with complimentary Wi-Fi, providing a flexible space for members who wish to work remotely. An on-site restaurant and café, known as the Clubroom, will offer a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and beverages in a relaxed social setting.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The construction and opening of the David Lloyd Club are expected to have a positive economic effect on the Bicester area. The project will generate around 80 new jobs, spanning a variety of roles from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff.
Recruitment for these positions has already begun, with a focus on hiring from the local talent pool where possible. The company plans to hold recruitment events in the coming months to fill the remaining vacancies ahead of the summer opening.
A spokesperson for the Cherwell District Council commented on the development, stating, "This is a welcome investment in our community. The new David Lloyd Club will not only provide excellent leisure facilities for our residents but also create valuable new employment opportunities, contributing to the continued economic growth of Bicester."
Community and Family Focus
A central part of the David Lloyd model is its emphasis on family. The Bicester club will include extensive facilities for children, making it an attractive destination for parents and their families.
The DL Kids program will offer a range of supervised activities, classes, and holiday camps designed for various age groups. A dedicated kids' club area and an outdoor play-space will provide safe and engaging environments for younger members.
Furthermore, the club's programming will include family-friendly swim times, junior tennis coaching, and other activities designed to encourage families to be active together. This approach aims to foster a sense of community among members and make health and wellness accessible to all ages.
As the opening date approaches, David Lloyd Leisure has launched a pre-sales campaign, allowing prospective members to register their interest and secure early membership offers. The company anticipates strong demand ahead of its official opening, reflecting the community's excitement for this new addition to Bicester's leisure landscape.