David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest facility in Bicester, a £17 million project located at the Bicester Gateway business park. The new club, which began welcoming members this week, has created approximately 100 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
The state-of-the-art health and wellness center is the company's 103rd club in the United Kingdom and aims to provide a premium destination for fitness, relaxation, and family activities for the growing Bicester community.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has launched a new £17 million club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The facility is located at the Bicester Gateway business park and has generated around 100 local jobs.
- It features extensive fitness areas, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is designed to cater to individuals and families, with dedicated spaces for children and adults.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Bicester club represents a significant financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure. The £17 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the town's economic growth and the rising demand for high-quality health and wellness facilities.
Construction on the site, adjacent to the Bicester Avenue Home and Garden Centre, was a multi-year project designed to create a comprehensive leisure destination. The creation of 100 jobs spans various roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, hospitality staff, and management positions, contributing directly to the local economy.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £17 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 100
- UK Club Number: 103
- Total Area: Over 90,000 square feet
Jack Phillips, the General Manager of the new Bicester club, commented on the opening. He stated that the team is excited to bring a world-class facility to the area and build a strong community of members.
"Our goal is to be more than just a gym; we want to be a place where families and individuals can spend quality time together, focusing on their health and well-being. The response from the local community has been incredibly positive, and we are thrilled to finally open our doors."
Comprehensive Facilities for Fitness and Relaxation
The Bicester David Lloyd Club offers a wide range of amenities designed to cater to diverse interests and fitness levels. The facilities are divided into distinct zones for exercise, swimming, racquet sports, and relaxation.
State-of-the-Art Gymnasium
The centerpiece of the club is its expansive gym, which is equipped with the latest fitness technology. Members have access to a variety of cardio and strength-training machines, including treadmills, cross-trainers, and a large free-weights area. The club also features dedicated studios for group classes, offering everything from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and cycling to yoga and Pilates.
Swimming and Spa Facilities
A key attraction is the club's extensive aquatic offering. This includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and a heated 20-meter outdoor pool, allowing for year-round use. For families, a separate indoor splash pool for children is available.
The Spa Retreat
Adjacent to the pool area is the club's luxury Spa Retreat. This adults-only section is designed for relaxation and features a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds. The inclusion of a dedicated spa is a signature element of David Lloyd's premium clubs, aiming to provide a complete wellness experience.
Racquet Sports and Family Areas
True to the brand's heritage, the club includes several championship-standard tennis courts, available for booking by members. Coaching programs for adults and children are also offered.
For families, the club has a dedicated DL Kids area offering activities and coaching for children. A soft-play frame and an outdoor play area are also part of the family-focused design. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are supervised in age-appropriate activities.
Integrating into the Bicester Community
The club's location at the Bicester Gateway business park places it in a rapidly developing commercial area. Its opening is expected to attract visitors and members from Bicester and surrounding towns and villages, further establishing the business park as a key local destination.
The Clubroom, a spacious café, bar, and restaurant, is designed to be a social hub for members. It offers a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a dedicated adults-only business area with workstations and Wi-Fi, catering to professionals who may wish to work remotely from the club.
According to a statement from David Lloyd Leisure, the company aims for each of its clubs to become an integral part of the local community. The Bicester facility is expected to host community events and support local initiatives in the future.
The David Lloyd Brand and Market Position
David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups, with 132 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The company was founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd.
The brand is known for its family-oriented, premium facilities that combine fitness equipment with a wide range of other activities like swimming, tennis, and spa services. The opening of the Bicester club aligns with its strategy of expanding into affluent, growing towns where there is a strong demand for comprehensive leisure services.
The membership-based model provides exclusive access to the facilities, creating a community environment that differentiates it from budget gyms. The Bicester club is expected to appeal to families, professionals, and individuals seeking an all-encompassing health and social club experience.