David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Northwood, London, following a significant £15 million investment. The state-of-the-art facility, which opened its doors to members this week, is set to create over 100 new jobs and provide a comprehensive range of fitness and leisure amenities to the local community.
The new club is part of David Lloyd's ongoing expansion strategy across the UK, focusing on providing premium family-friendly environments. The Northwood location occupies a purpose-built site and features the company's latest design concepts and wellness technologies.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new facility in Northwood, London.
- The project represents a total investment of £15 million.
- Over 100 full-time and part-time jobs have been created.
- The club includes indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports facilities.
A Major Investment in Community Health
The £15 million development underscores a strong commitment to enhancing wellness infrastructure in the region. According to company statements, the investment covers land acquisition, construction, and the installation of high-end fitness equipment and facilities. This project marks one of the largest single investments in a UK leisure facility this year.
The planning and construction phase spanned approximately 24 months, transforming a previously undeveloped site into a modern leisure hub. The club aims to cater to families, individuals, and corporate members, offering a wide array of activities designed to promote physical and mental well-being.
Background on David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Clubs operates over 130 clubs across the UK and Europe. The company is known for its focus on racquet sports, particularly tennis, alongside comprehensive gym and spa facilities. Their model emphasizes a premium, family-oriented experience, distinguishing them from budget gym chains.
Inside the New Northwood Facility
The Northwood club boasts an extensive range of amenities designed to meet diverse fitness and relaxation needs. The facility's layout is structured to provide distinct zones for different activities, ensuring a seamless experience for members.
Core Fitness and Aquatics
At the heart of the club is a spacious, modern gymnasium equipped with the latest cardio and strength-training machines. The gym floor includes dedicated zones for functional training, free weights, and digital fitness experiences. Adjacent to the gym, the aquatics area is a central feature.
- 25-metre indoor swimming pool: Designed for lane swimming and lessons.
- 20-metre heated outdoor pool: Open year-round for leisure swimming.
- Children's splash pool: A dedicated, safe area for younger family members.
These facilities are complemented by a full schedule of aqua aerobics classes and swimming lessons for all ages and abilities, managed by certified instructors.
Racquet Sports and Group Exercise
Staying true to its heritage, the club offers exceptional racquet sports facilities. According to the club's general manager, these are expected to be a major draw for the local community.
The Northwood location features 10 tennis courts (a mix of indoor and outdoor surfaces) and 4 badminton courts, making it one of the largest racquet facilities in the area.
In addition to racquets, the club has four dedicated group exercise studios. These will host over 130 classes each week, including popular programs like Blaze, IGN1TE, and a variety of yoga, Pilates, and cycling classes.
Luxury Spa and Family Services
A key element of the David Lloyd offering is its focus on wellness and relaxation. The Northwood club features a luxurious 'Spa Retreat' area, which is accessible to adult members.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym; we wanted to build a premium destination where families can spend quality time together and individuals can focus on their well-being," stated Sarah Jones, the new General Manager for the Northwood club.
The spa facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds. A range of professional treatments will also be available for booking.
For families, the club provides a dedicated 'DL Kids' area with supervised activities, a soft play frame, and a family-friendly café. This integrated approach allows parents to use the club's facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities.
Economic Impact and Local Employment
The opening of the David Lloyd club is a significant economic event for Northwood. The creation of over 100 jobs provides a substantial boost to local employment. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management, catering, and maintenance staff.
The company emphasized its commitment to hiring from the local community during the recruitment process. This local focus helps ensure that the economic benefits of the new development are felt directly within the surrounding area.
Furthermore, the club is expected to attract members from Northwood and neighboring towns, potentially increasing footfall for other local businesses. The development also involved numerous local contractors and suppliers during its construction phase, providing an additional short-term economic stimulus.
