David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its new £15 million facility in Green Park, Reading, creating approximately 100 new jobs. The state-of-the-art club aims to provide comprehensive health, wellness, and leisure services to local residents and the business community.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Green Park, Reading, following a £15 million investment.
- The facility has created around 100 new full-time and part-time employment opportunities in the area.
- Spanning 10,000 square meters, the club features advanced fitness equipment, swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The opening reflects a growing demand for premium wellness and leisure facilities that integrate fitness, family activities, and remote working spaces.
New Facility Launch and Economic Impact
The new David Lloyd Club in Reading's Green Park business hub represents a significant investment in the local economy. The £15 million project, which took 18 months to complete, is now one of the company's flagship locations in the Thames Valley region.
According to company officials, the development has generated approximately 100 new jobs, ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. This provides a notable boost to local employment figures.
Strategic Location in a Business Hub
Green Park is one of the largest business parks in the UK, home to numerous multinational corporations. The placement of the new club is strategic, designed to serve both the thousands of employees working within the park and the surrounding residential communities of Reading.
A Response to Modern Lifestyle Demands
The design and offerings of the new club are tailored to meet contemporary lifestyle needs. With the rise of flexible and remote working, the facility includes a dedicated business lounge with high-speed Wi-Fi, offering a space for members to work before or after a workout.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym. We wanted a comprehensive destination for health, family, and work-life balance. This £15 million investment in Reading shows our commitment to providing world-class facilities that support the well-being of the entire community," stated Glenn Earlam, CEO of David Lloyd Clubs, during the opening ceremony.
Inside the 10,000 Square Meter Facility
The new club offers an extensive range of amenities designed for individuals and families. The sheer scale of the facility allows for a diverse set of activities under one roof, catering to a wide array of interests and fitness levels.
Comprehensive Fitness and Sports Amenities
The core of the facility is its large, modern gymnasium. It is equipped with the latest fitness technology, including connected cardio machines and a wide selection of strength training equipment. In addition to the main gym floor, there are several specialized fitness studios.
- Group Fitness Studios: Three studios host over 130 classes each week, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, Pilates, and cycling.
- Racquet Sports: The club features multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts, as well as facilities for badminton and squash.
- Swimming Pools: A 25-meter indoor pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool are available for lane swimming, lessons, and relaxation.
Facility by the Numbers
The Reading club includes: - 10,000 square meters of space - 130+ weekly group exercise classes - 5 indoor tennis courts - 2 swimming pools (indoor and outdoor) - 100 new jobs created
Focus on Wellness and Family
Beyond traditional fitness, the club places a strong emphasis on holistic wellness and family-oriented services. This approach aligns with broader trends in the health industry, where mental well-being and social connection are seen as integral to physical health.
The Luxury Spa and Relaxation Areas
A significant portion of the facility is dedicated to a luxury spa. The spa, known as the 'Spa Retreat,' is designed as an adult-only sanctuary. It includes a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas, steam rooms, and an outdoor spa garden. These amenities are intended to provide members with a space for recovery and relaxation.
The inclusion of such extensive spa facilities reflects a market trend where consumers are increasingly seeking premium wellness experiences that go beyond simple exercise.
Family-Friendly Features
David Lloyd Clubs have traditionally catered to families, and the new Reading location continues this focus. A dedicated DL Kids club offers activities and coaching for children, allowing parents to use the club's facilities. There is also a soft-play area and a family-friendly café.
The Growing UK Wellness Market
According to reports from the Global Wellness Institute, the UK wellness market is valued at over £23 billion. This growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of health, a desire for preventative care, and a demand for experiences that combine fitness with social and relaxation elements. The investment in facilities like the new David Lloyd Club taps directly into this expanding market.
Community and Future Outlook
Local officials have welcomed the opening of the new club, citing its positive contribution to the local area. The facility is expected to attract new members from across Reading and the wider Berkshire area, enhancing the appeal of Green Park as a place to work and live.
A Reading Borough Council representative noted, "This is a fantastic new asset for our community. It not only brings jobs and investment but also provides a high-quality facility that promotes health and well-being for our residents."
The launch of the Reading club is part of David Lloyd's broader strategy of investing in new and existing locations across the UK and Europe. The company continues to adapt its model to incorporate new fitness trends, wellness services, and flexible working spaces, positioning itself for sustained growth in a competitive market.