David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and racquets club in Edgbaston, Birmingham, following an £18 million investment. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to create over 100 permanent jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy and community wellness.
The new club, which opened its doors to members this week, is the company's 101st location in the UK and part of a broader strategy to expand its premium family-focused leisure offerings. The development transforms a previously underutilized site into a modern hub for health, fitness, and social activities.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £18 million in a new health and racquets club in Edgbaston, Birmingham.
- The new facility has created more than 100 full-time and part-time jobs in the area.
- Key features include a 25-metre indoor pool, an outdoor hydrotherapy pool, 12 tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club aims to provide a premium, family-oriented experience, with dedicated zones for children and adults.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The £18 million project represents one of David Lloyd's most significant investments in the UK in recent years. The company stated that the Edgbaston location was chosen due to its strong community and the growing demand for high-quality health and wellness facilities in the Birmingham area.
Construction on the site began over 18 months ago, involving extensive groundwork and the development of a purpose-built, multi-level structure. The club's design emphasizes natural light and open spaces, aiming to create a welcoming environment for members of all ages.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The opening is a welcome development for the local economy. The creation of over 100 new positions covers a wide range of roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, tennis coaches, hospitality staff, and management.
According to a statement from the company, a significant portion of the new staff has been recruited from the local Birmingham community. This move aligns with David Lloyd's commitment to supporting the regions in which it operates.
"We are thrilled to bring our latest club to Edgbaston. This £18 million investment underscores our confidence in Birmingham as a vibrant and growing city. Our goal is not just to build a fitness club, but to create a community hub that supports health, wellness, and social connection for local families."– Michelle Taylor, General Manager, David Lloyd Edgbaston
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The new club boasts an extensive range of facilities designed to cater to a diverse membership base, from serious athletes to families looking for recreational activities. The amenities are spread across a spacious complex, offering both indoor and outdoor options.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £18 million
- New Jobs Created: 100+
- Indoor Pool: 25 metres
- Outdoor Pool: 20 metres
- Tennis Courts: 12 (6 indoor, 6 outdoor)
- Group Exercise Studios: 4 (including BLAZE and SPIRIT studios)
- Spa Size: 500 square metres
The club's offerings are designed to provide a comprehensive wellness experience. Members have access to a wide variety of fitness classes, personalized training, and relaxation areas, all under one roof.
Fitness and Training Zones
The centerpiece of the fitness area is a large, modern gym floor equipped with the latest technology from Technogym. This includes a full range of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a dedicated functional fitness zone called Synrgy360.
In addition to the main gym, there are four specialized group exercise studios:
- High-Impact Studio: For classes like BodyPump and circuit training.
- Mind & Body Studio: A quiet space for yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- BLAZE Studio: A signature David Lloyd high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class combining cardio, strength, and combat.
- Cycle Hub: A dedicated studio for indoor cycling classes with immersive lighting and sound.
The club offers a schedule of over 130 classes per week, ensuring members have ample choice to fit their fitness goals and schedules. Personal training services are also available for those seeking tailored guidance.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Aquatics
True to its heritage, the Edgbaston club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. It features a total of 12 championship-standard tennis courts, split evenly between indoor and outdoor surfaces. The club also offers 4 badminton courts and 2 squash courts.
A team of certified coaches will provide lessons for all ages and skill levels, from junior development programs to adult competitive leagues. According to the club, the goal is to foster a vibrant racquet sports community.
David Lloyd's Racquets Heritage
David Lloyd Clubs was founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd. The brand was built around providing high-quality tennis facilities for families, an ethos that continues to be a core part of its identity. The investment in premier racquet facilities at new clubs like Edgbaston reflects this long-standing commitment.
Swimming and Spa Facilities
The aquatics area is another highlight of the new club. It includes a 25-metre indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower family splash pool for children. A key attraction is the 20-metre heated outdoor pool, which will be open year-round.
Adjacent to the pool area is the luxury spa, named the Spa Retreat. This adults-only sanctuary offers a range of hydrotherapy experiences, including:
- A large hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice fountain
- Heated relaxation beds
- An outdoor spa garden
The spa is designed to provide a tranquil escape for members to relax and rejuvenate after a workout or a busy day.
A Hub for Families and Social Life
Beyond fitness, the Edgbaston club is structured to be a social destination. The Clubroom serves as a central hub, offering a restaurant and café with both indoor and outdoor terrace seating. The menu focuses on fresh, healthy options alongside family favorites.
A dedicated family zone includes a soft-play area for younger children and a space for older kids with activities like table tennis. The club also runs the David Lloyd Kids program, offering supervised activities, sports coaching, and holiday clubs.
For professionals, the club includes an adults-only business area with workstations, free Wi-Fi, and quiet seating. This feature caters to the growing trend of remote work, allowing members to combine their work and wellness routines.
The opening of the David Lloyd club in Edgbaston marks a significant addition to Birmingham's leisure landscape. With its substantial investment and comprehensive offerings, it aims to become a cornerstone of the community for years to come.