David Lloyd Clubs has announced a significant £12 million investment to build a new health, spa, and racquets club in Teesside. The project is expected to create approximately 100 new jobs and provide a wide range of premium wellness and leisure facilities for the local community, with an anticipated opening in late 2024.
Situated near the Tees Barrage area, the new club will be the first of its kind in the region, offering extensive amenities for families, couples, and individuals. The development marks a major commitment to enhancing the health and social infrastructure of Teesside.
Key Takeaways
- Investment: A £12 million project to construct a new David Lloyd Club in Teesside.
- Job Creation: The new facility is expected to generate around 100 full-time and part-time positions.
- Facilities: The club will feature indoor and outdoor pools, a large gym, racquet courts, a luxury spa, and family areas.
- Location: The site is strategically located near the Tees Barrage, providing convenient access for residents across the region.
- Opening: The club is scheduled to open its doors to members in late 2024.
A Major Investment in Regional Wellness
The £12 million development represents one of the largest private investments in Teesside's leisure sector in recent years. According to company officials, the project aims to address a growing demand for premium health and wellness services in the North East.
Construction on the multi-acre site is already underway. The investment covers the entire build, state-of-the-art equipment, and high-quality finishes throughout the facility. This project underscores David Lloyd Clubs' strategy of expanding its presence in key regional hubs across the United Kingdom.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
A significant benefit for the local economy will be the creation of approximately 100 new jobs. These roles will span various departments, including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, spa therapy, and maintenance.
Recruitment for key management positions is expected to begin in the coming months, with a broader hiring push for operational staff planned closer to the opening date. The company has stated its commitment to hiring from the local talent pool where possible, providing a boost to regional employment.
Who are David Lloyd Clubs?
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure Ltd is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The clubs are known for their family-friendly orientation and extensive facilities, particularly in racquets sports, fitness, and spa services.
State-of-the-Art Facilities for All Ages
The Teesside club is designed to cater to a diverse membership base, from young children to seniors. The facility will incorporate the latest fitness technology and club design concepts seen in David Lloyd's newest locations.
The General Manager for the new Teesside club, Sarah Peterson, commented on the vision for the facility.
"Our goal is to create more than just a gym; we are building a community hub where families can spend quality time together, individuals can pursue their fitness goals, and everyone can relax and socialise. The range and quality of facilities will be second to none in this area."
Core Fitness and Swimming Areas
At the heart of the club will be a spacious, 100+ station gymnasium. It will be equipped with the latest cardio and strength training machines, including integrated digital technology for workout tracking. The gym will also feature a large free-weights area and functional training zones.
The aquatic facilities will be a major draw, featuring:
- A 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons.
- A heated 20-meter outdoor swimming pool, open year-round.
- Indoor and outdoor splash pools for children.
- A comprehensive timetable of aqua aerobics classes.
Did You Know?
David Lloyd Clubs typically offer over 13,000 exercise classes every week across all its locations, covering everything from high-intensity interval training to yoga and Pilates.
Premium Spa and Racquet Sports
A key feature of the new club will be its luxurious spa facilities, designed to provide a tranquil retreat for members. The 'Spa Garden' concept will offer a variety of thermal experiences to promote relaxation and recovery.
Spa amenities will include a large hydro-pool, multiple saunas with different temperatures and humidity levels, a crystal steam room, and an outdoor spa garden with relaxation zones and fire pits. A range of professional spa treatments will also be available.
Extensive Racquets Provision
Staying true to its heritage, the club will boast impressive facilities for racquet sports enthusiasts. The plans include several indoor and outdoor tennis courts with high-quality surfaces suitable for all weather conditions. Additionally, there will be dedicated courts for squash and badminton.
A team of certified coaches will be on hand to provide lessons for all ages and abilities, from beginners to advanced players. The club will also host internal leagues and social tournaments to foster a vibrant racquets community.
A Focus on Family and Community
David Lloyd Clubs places a strong emphasis on family-oriented services. The Teesside location will feature a dedicated 'DL Kids' area with activities and coaching for children aged 3 months to 16 years. The programme is designed to keep children active and engaged while parents use the club's other facilities.
The central Clubroom will serve as the social core of the facility. This open-plan café, bar, and restaurant area will offer a varied menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It will also include a business hub with complimentary Wi-Fi for members who wish to work remotely in a relaxed environment.
Michelle Horn, a Regional Director for David Lloyd, stated, "We see our clubs as an integral part of the local community. The Teesside club will provide a safe, welcoming, and high-quality environment for people to focus on their physical and mental wellbeing. We are excited to bring this investment to the region and look forward to welcoming our first members."
Pre-sale of memberships is expected to launch in the summer of 2024, with founding members receiving exclusive offers. Further details on the opening timeline and membership options will be released closer to the launch date.