A new £12 million David Lloyd Club has officially opened in Bicester, Oxfordshire, creating 80 new jobs and introducing a large-scale health and wellness facility to the growing community. The club is situated on the edge of the Kingsmere housing development and aims to provide comprehensive fitness, relaxation, and social amenities for families and individuals in the area.
The significant investment underscores the company's confidence in the region's growth. The facility features a wide range of amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a state-of-the-art gym, multiple group exercise studios, and extensive racquet sports courts, positioning it as a major leisure destination for local residents.
Key Takeaways
- New Facility: David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- Economic Impact: The project represents a £12 million investment and has created 80 new full-time and part-time jobs.
- Extensive Amenities: The club includes swimming pools, a luxury spa, a large gym, racquet courts, and dedicated family areas.
- Strategic Location: The club is part of the expanding Kingsmere community development, which includes thousands of new homes.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The opening of the Bicester club marks a significant addition to the David Lloyd Leisure portfolio. The company has invested £12 million into the development, reflecting a long-term commitment to the town and its expanding population. This investment has directly translated into local employment, with the creation of 80 jobs across various roles, from fitness instruction to hospitality and management.
Jack Phillips, the General Manager of the new club, highlighted the facility's role in the community. He noted that the club is designed to be more than just a gym, but a place for families and individuals to spend quality time together while focusing on their health and wellbeing.
"We are thrilled to finally open our doors and welcome the Bicester community into the club. This is a place for members to prioritize their physical and mental health in a premium setting," Phillips stated.
Strategic Placement within Kingsmere
The club's location is a key aspect of its strategy. It is situated within the Kingsmere development, a major residential project that is adding thousands of new homes to Bicester. This placement allows the club to serve as a central hub for new and existing residents, integrating leisure facilities directly into the fabric of the community.
About the Kingsmere Development
Kingsmere is a large-scale urban extension in Bicester, planned to include over 2,400 new homes, along with new schools, sports facilities, parks, and a local retail center. The David Lloyd Club is one of the anchor amenities for this new community, designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents.
Inside the 10,000 Square Metre Facility
The Bicester club spans an impressive 10,000 square metres, housing a diverse array of modern fitness and relaxation facilities. The design focuses on providing a premium experience with distinct zones for different activities, catering to a wide range of members from serious athletes to families seeking recreation.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Size: 10,000 sq m
- Gym Area: 1,000 sq m
- Indoor Pool: 25 metres
- Outdoor Pool: 20 metres
- Tennis Courts: 6 (3 indoor, 3 outdoor)
- Badminton Courts: 4
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Gym
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is the 1,000 square metre gymnasium. It is equipped with cutting-edge machinery from leading brands like Eleiko and Wattbike. The layout is designed to accommodate various training styles, from strength and conditioning to cardio and functional fitness. According to the company, the equipment selection was curated to provide members with the best possible tools to achieve their fitness goals.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club features several specialized group exercise studios. These include:
- BLAZE: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio combining cardio, strength, and combat exercises.
- IGN1TE: Another high-energy HIIT class with a focus on mixed martial arts-inspired movements.
- SPIRIT: A holistic studio dedicated to yoga, Pilates, and meditation, offering a calmer environment.
- Cyclone: An indoor cycling studio equipped with advanced bikes for immersive group classes.
Comprehensive Spa and Aquatic Facilities
A significant portion of the club is dedicated to relaxation and recovery. The luxury spa area, known as the Spa Retreat, offers a range of hydrotherapy and heat experiences. This area is designed as an adults-only sanctuary for members to unwind.
Features of the Spa Retreat include a large hydro pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a citrus steam room, and an ice cave. Heated relaxation beds and an outdoor spa garden provide additional spaces for quiet contemplation. This emphasis on wellness aligns with a growing industry trend that integrates mental relaxation with physical fitness.
Pools for All Seasons
The club provides both indoor and outdoor swimming options. A 25-metre indoor pool is available for lane swimming and lessons year-round. Adjacent to it is a 20-metre heated outdoor pool, allowing members to swim in the open air regardless of the weather. These facilities cater to both competitive swimmers and families looking for recreational water activities.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Amenities
Staying true to its origins, the David Lloyd Club in Bicester offers extensive facilities for racquet sports enthusiasts. The club boasts three indoor and three outdoor tennis courts, all built to high specifications. Additionally, there are four indoor badminton courts available for members.
The company also places a strong emphasis on family-friendly services. A dedicated DL Kids area provides activities and classes for children, while a crèche is available for younger members. These services are designed to allow parents to use the club's facilities with the peace of mind that their children are engaged in a safe and supervised environment.
The central Clubroom acts as a social hub, featuring a restaurant and a business area with complimentary Wi-Fi. This space encourages members to socialize, work, or relax before and after their workouts, further positioning the club as a central point for the local community.