David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire, following a £12 million investment. The new club, located in the Bicester Gateway business park, aims to provide comprehensive health, wellness, and leisure services for families and individuals in the region.
The facility is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and features a wide range of amenities, including a state-of-the-art gym, multiple swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive programs for children.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: The new Bicester club represents a £12 million investment in the local community.
- Job Creation: Approximately 80 full-time and part-time positions have been created.
- Extensive Facilities: The club includes indoor and outdoor pools, a high-tech gym, a spa garden, tennis courts, and dedicated family areas.
- Strategic Location: Situated in the Bicester Gateway business park, the club is easily accessible to local residents and commuters.
A New Health and Wellness Hub for Oxfordshire
The new David Lloyd Club in Bicester officially opened its doors to members, marking a significant addition to the area's leisure landscape. The development, valued at £12 million, underscores the company's commitment to expanding its premium health and fitness offerings across the United Kingdom.
Located strategically near the M40 and Bicester Village, the club is designed to serve as a central hub for community wellness. Construction focused on creating a modern, family-friendly environment that caters to a diverse range of fitness levels and lifestyle needs.
According to company statements, the Bicester location is the 103rd club in the UK for the David Lloyd group. The launch is part of a broader strategy to invest in high-quality facilities that blend fitness, relaxation, and social activities.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The Bicester club spans a large footprint and incorporates a variety of specialized zones designed for fitness, relaxation, and family activities. The design emphasizes natural light and open spaces to create a welcoming atmosphere for its members.
What are David Lloyd Clubs?
David Lloyd Clubs is a premium health and fitness group founded in the UK in 1982. The clubs are known for their extensive racquet facilities, family-oriented services, and comprehensive wellness offerings that go beyond a standard gym, often including spas, pools, and social clubhouses.
Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a large, modern gymnasium equipped with the latest technology. Members have access to a wide array of cardio and strength-training equipment, including brands like Eleiko and Technogym. The gym floor is zoned for different workout styles, from functional training to weightlifting.
In addition to the main gym, the club features several specialized studios for group classes. These include:
- A high-energy cycling studio for immersive spin classes.
- A Mind & Body studio for yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- A High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) studio, known as BLAZE, which combines cardio, strength, and combat training.
The club plans to offer over 100 group exercise classes each week, catering to all fitness levels and interests.
Spa and Relaxation Sanctuaries
A significant portion of the investment was dedicated to creating a luxurious spa retreat. Known as the Spa Garden, this area is designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. It features a range of hydrotherapy pools, heated beds, and sauna and steam rooms.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym. We wanted to build a destination where families and individuals can spend their day focusing on their well-being, whether that's through a workout, a swim, or simply relaxing in our spa."
The outdoor Spa Garden includes a sauna and a hydro pool, allowing members to relax in a natural setting. The indoor spa facilities provide a tranquil escape with various heat and ice experiences aimed at promoting recovery and wellness.
Family and Racquet Sports Amenities
True to the brand's heritage, the Bicester club offers excellent facilities for racquet sports. It includes multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts, as well as courts for squash and badminton. Professional coaching is available for both adults and children.
The club is also designed to be highly family-friendly. The dedicated 'DL Kids' area provides supervised activities, classes, and play spaces for children. This allows parents to use the club's facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun programs. The club also features both a 25-meter indoor pool and a 20-meter outdoor swimming pool, with designated times for family swimming and adult-only lane swimming.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £12 million
- Jobs Created: ~80
- Gym Size: Expansive, with cutting-edge equipment
- Pools: 25m indoor, 20m outdoor
- Tennis Courts: Multiple indoor and outdoor courts
- Weekly Classes: Over 100 scheduled classes
Economic Impact and Community Engagement
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a notable economic event for Bicester. The creation of approximately 80 permanent jobs provides a boost to local employment, with roles ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff.
Jack Phillips, the newly appointed General Manager for the Bicester club, commented on the launch. "We are thrilled to bring this world-class facility to Bicester. The response from the community has been incredibly positive, and our team is excited to welcome our first members and become an integral part of the local area."
The club's location in the Bicester Gateway business park is also expected to attract more visitors and businesses to the area, complementing the existing retail and commercial developments. This synergy is anticipated to further establish Bicester as a key economic hub in Oxfordshire.
Membership and Future Outlook
Membership for the new club has been open for several months, with the company reporting strong initial interest from local residents. The club offers various membership tiers, including options for individuals, couples, and families, with different levels of access to the spa and racquet facilities.
The Bicester club represents the latest evolution of the David Lloyd brand, which continues to adapt to changing consumer demands for holistic wellness experiences. As people increasingly prioritize health and work-life balance, facilities that combine fitness, relaxation, and social elements under one roof are becoming more popular.
With its comprehensive offerings and strategic location, the David Lloyd Bicester club is well-positioned to become a leading destination for health and leisure in the region for years to come.