David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawford, Hampshire, following a £15 million investment. The state-of-the-art facility, which began welcoming members this week, is expected to create over 100 new jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy.
The new club is the company's 103rd location in the UK and features a comprehensive range of fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented amenities. The development aims to become a central hub for community wellness and social activity in the region.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has launched a new £15 million club in Shawford, Hampshire.
- The facility has created more than 100 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Features include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, tennis courts, and a dedicated kids' zone.
- The club is part of David Lloyd's broader strategy of expanding its premium wellness offerings across the UK.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The construction and launch of the Shawford David Lloyd Club represent one of the largest private investments in the area's leisure sector in recent years. The £15 million project was completed over an 18-month period, transforming a previously undeveloped site into a modern wellness destination.
Company officials stated that the location was chosen due to strong local demand for premium health and fitness facilities. "We identified Shawford as a community that would greatly benefit from a family-focused club that offers more than just a gym," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Leisure. The investment covers land acquisition, construction, high-end equipment, and interior design.
Background on David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. The company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, serving more than 730,000 members. Its model focuses on providing a wide range of activities for all age groups in a premium environment.
The new facility spans over 10,000 square meters, incorporating both indoor and outdoor spaces designed for year-round use. The architecture emphasizes natural light and open-plan designs to create a welcoming atmosphere for members.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Services
The Shawford club offers an extensive array of amenities designed to cater to diverse fitness levels and wellness goals. The company aims to provide a comprehensive experience that combines fitness, relaxation, and social activities under one roof.
Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a spacious, modern gym equipped with the latest cardio and strength-training machines from leading brands. The gym floor is divided into specialized zones, including areas for functional training, free weights, and plate-loaded equipment. A dedicated High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) studio, known as BLAZE, offers boutique-style group classes combining cardio, strength, and combat training.
In addition to the main gym, there are three group exercise studios. One is dedicated to holistic practices like yoga and Pilates, another for high-energy classes, and a third for group cycling sessions. This variety ensures that members have access to a wide range of instructor-led workouts.
Racquet Sports and Swimming
True to its heritage, the new club boasts significant racquet sport facilities. It includes:
- Five indoor tennis courts with professional-grade surfaces.
- Three outdoor tennis courts, which are floodlit for evening play.
- Three badminton courts located within the indoor sports hall.
- Two squash courts available for booking.
The swimming facilities are equally impressive. An indoor 25-meter swimming pool is available for lane swimming and lessons, while a heated 20-meter outdoor pool provides a space for relaxation and family fun, particularly during warmer months.
Spa and Relaxation
A key feature of the new club is its luxurious spa, branded as the 'Spa Retreat.' This area is designed as a sanctuary for members to unwind and rejuvenate. It includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds. The outdoor spa garden features an additional sauna and comfortable seating areas.
"Our goal is to provide an escape from the stresses of daily life. The Spa Retreat is more than an add-on; it's an integral part of the wellness journey we offer our members."
- Jane Davies, Club General Manager
The spa facilities are intended to promote both mental and physical well-being, aligning with the growing trend of holistic health.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a significant event for the local Shawford community. The creation of over 100 new jobs provides a welcome boost to local employment. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative staff and café workers.
According to a local business council report, the development is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy. The club will likely attract members from surrounding areas, potentially increasing footfall for other local businesses. The construction phase also utilized local contractors and suppliers where possible, further injecting capital into the regional economy.
The club is also designed to be a family and community hub. A dedicated DL Kids zone offers activities and coaching for children, allowing parents to use the facilities. The Clubroom, a spacious café and restaurant area, provides a social space for members to work, relax, or dine. This emphasis on community is a core part of the David Lloyd business model.
Membership and Future Outlook
Pre-launch membership sales have been strong, according to the company, indicating high anticipation from local residents. The club offers various membership tiers, including individual, couple, and family packages, with pricing reflecting its premium market position.
The Shawford opening is part of David Lloyd's ongoing strategy to expand its footprint and upgrade existing clubs. The company has invested heavily in modernizing its facilities and incorporating new wellness trends, such as boutique fitness studios and comprehensive spa areas, to meet evolving consumer demands.
Looking ahead, the club's management plans to introduce community events, sports leagues, and wellness workshops to further engage its members. The long-term success of the facility will depend on its ability to maintain high standards and foster a strong sense of community among its members.