David Lloyd Clubs has announced the development of a new £12 million premium health and wellness facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The project is expected to create over 80 permanent jobs and is scheduled to open its doors to the public in the spring of 2025, marking a significant investment in the region's leisure infrastructure.
The new club will be located at the Catalyst Bicester business park, providing members with a wide range of state-of-the-art fitness and relaxation amenities. This move is part of the company's broader strategy to expand its presence in key growth areas across the United Kingdom.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs is investing £12 million in a new health and wellness club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The project will generate more than 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local community.
- Facilities will include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a modern gym, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is set to open in Spring 2025 as part of the Catalyst Bicester development.
A Major Investment in Local Community and Wellness
The development represents one of the most substantial investments in Bicester's leisure sector in recent years. The £12 million funding covers the construction, fitting, and launch of the facility, which aims to cater to families, professionals, and fitness enthusiasts in the rapidly growing town and surrounding areas.
Local officials have welcomed the announcement, highlighting the positive economic impact of the new club. The creation of over 80 jobs will span various roles, including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and maintenance, providing a boost to local employment.
According to a statement from the company, the Bicester location was chosen due to the town's significant residential growth and a demonstrated demand for premium health and wellness services. The club is designed to be a community hub, offering services that go beyond physical fitness.
Economic and Social Impact
The new David Lloyd Club is positioned as an anchor tenant at Catalyst Bicester, a 300,000-square-foot business and technology park. The presence of such a high-profile leisure brand is expected to attract further investment and businesses to the area, contributing to its development as a key economic center in Oxfordshire.
About David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure group. It operates 133 clubs, with 103 in the UK and a further 30 across mainland Europe. The company focuses on providing family-oriented facilities that combine fitness, relaxation, and social activities.
The club's integration into the local community is a key part of its strategy. Plans include partnerships with local schools and community groups to promote health and wellness initiatives. This approach aligns with a growing public focus on preventative health and active lifestyles.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Amenities
The Bicester club will feature the full range of amenities for which David Lloyd is known. The design emphasizes a premium experience, with distinct zones for different activities and age groups, ensuring a comprehensive offering for all members.
The extensive facilities are planned to include:
- A 10,000-square-foot gymnasium with the latest cardio and strength-training equipment.
- Three group exercise studios offering a variety of classes, including HIIT, yoga, and cycling.
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, including a 25-meter lane pool and a family splash pool.
- Championship-quality indoor and outdoor tennis courts.
- A luxurious spa with a sauna, steam room, hydro pool, and treatment rooms.
Facility by the Numbers
The new Bicester club will feature approximately 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. The gym alone will house over 150 pieces of high-tech fitness equipment, and the club will offer more than 180 group exercise classes per week.
In addition to the core fitness areas, the club will include dedicated spaces for families. A DL Kids facility will provide supervised activities for children, while a family-friendly café and a business lounge will offer spaces for members to socialize and work.
"Our goal is to create more than just a gym. We are building a destination where families can spend quality time together, individuals can achieve their wellness goals, and the community can connect," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs.
Strategic Expansion in a Growing Market
The decision to build in Bicester is part of David Lloyd's strategic expansion plan, which targets areas with strong demographic growth and a need for high-quality leisure facilities. The UK's health and wellness market has shown remarkable resilience and growth, with consumers increasingly prioritizing their physical and mental well-being.
This trend has fueled demand for premium, multi-purpose clubs that offer a holistic experience. David Lloyd's model, which combines fitness, relaxation, and social spaces, is well-positioned to meet this demand. The Bicester project follows several other successful club openings and refurbishments across the country.
The Future of Health and Wellness Clubs
The new club's design reflects modern trends in the fitness industry. There is a strong emphasis on flexible spaces that can accommodate different types of training, from traditional weightlifting to functional fitness and mind-body disciplines like Pilates and yoga.
The inclusion of a high-end spa, known as the 'Spa Retreat,' underscores the growing importance of recovery and mental wellness. This facility will offer a sanctuary for members to relax and de-stress, complementing the more active parts of the club.
The company has also invested heavily in its digital platform, allowing members to book classes, track progress, and access on-demand workouts through a mobile app. This digital integration is a key feature that will be fully implemented at the new Bicester location.
What to Expect at the Opening
As the Spring 2025 opening date approaches, David Lloyd will begin its pre-opening membership sales campaign. Prospective members can typically expect to see founding member offers, providing early access and preferential rates.
The construction phase is already underway at the Catalyst Bicester site, with the main structure expected to take shape over the coming months. The company has committed to using sustainable building practices where possible, in line with its corporate environmental goals.
The launch of the Bicester club is set to be a significant event for the local area, promising to deliver a first-class health and wellness facility that will serve the community for many years to come.