David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its new £20 million facility in Manchester, a major investment in the city's health and wellness sector. The new club, which opened its doors on October 15, 2024, has created approximately 100 new full-time and part-time jobs for the local community.
The state-of-the-art center is designed to cater to families and individuals, offering a wide range of fitness, relaxation, and social amenities. The development aims to provide a premium health and leisure experience for its members.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £20 million in a new multi-purpose facility in Manchester.
- The club's opening has generated around 100 new employment opportunities in the area.
- Key features include advanced spa facilities, multiple racquet courts, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a dedicated business lounge.
- The development reflects a growing demand for comprehensive wellness and family-oriented leisure spaces.
A Significant Investment in Local Wellness
The new David Lloyd Club represents a substantial financial commitment to the Manchester area. The £20 million project was developed over two years, transforming a previously underutilized site into a modern hub for health and fitness activities. This investment underscores the company's confidence in the local economy and the growing consumer interest in wellness services.
According to company representatives, the club is one of the largest in their UK portfolio. The construction and launch phases have supported local businesses and contractors, contributing further to the regional economy. The creation of 100 new jobs covers a variety of roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, administrative staff, and hospitality personnel.
Facility and Service Overview
The Manchester club offers an extensive array of facilities designed to meet diverse member needs. The physical infrastructure is built to high standards, focusing on providing a premium user experience.
The fitness areas are a central component of the new club. The main gym is equipped with the latest cardio and strength-training machines from leading manufacturers. Additionally, there are several specialized studios for group classes, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, Pilates, and cycling.
Club Facilities at a Glance
- Gym: Large, open-plan gym with cardio, strength, and functional training zones.
- Swimming Pools: A 25-meter indoor lap pool and a heated 20-meter outdoor pool.
- Racquet Sports: 4 indoor tennis courts, 3 squash courts, and 4 Padel courts.
- Spa: Hydrotherapy pools, sauna, steam room, salt cave, and treatment rooms.
- Family Services: DL Kids club, nursery, and dedicated family changing areas.
- Food & Beverage: Clubroom restaurant and café with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Business Hub: Co-working space with Wi-Fi and workstations.
Advanced Spa and Racquet Sport Offerings
A key feature of the new Manchester location is its expansive spa, named the 'Spa Retreat'. This area is designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and recovery, accessible to adult members. It includes a variety of thermal experiences, such as a Himalayan salt sauna, a crystal steam room, and an ice fountain.
The spa also features several hydrotherapy pools, offering different water temperatures and jet pressures to aid muscle relaxation. Members can book a range of treatments, including massages and facials, which are provided by professionally trained therapists.
"We wanted to create a space that goes beyond a standard gym," explained Sarah Jones, the new club's General Manager. "The Spa Retreat is about total well-being, providing a place where members can de-stress and recharge. It's a crucial part of the holistic health experience we aim to offer."
In addition to the spa, the club has made a significant investment in racquet sports. It features four indoor tennis courts with professional-grade surfaces. A major highlight is the inclusion of four Padel courts, catering to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport in the UK.
Focus on Family and Community
David Lloyd Clubs has traditionally focused on a family-friendly model, and the new Manchester facility continues this approach. The club includes a dedicated DL Kids area, which offers a schedule of supervised activities for children, allowing parents to use the club's facilities.
The club also features a nursery for younger children and family-specific changing rooms. The goal is to create an environment where all family members can engage in healthy activities. The on-site Clubroom restaurant offers a menu designed for both adults and children, providing a social space for families to gather after their activities.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court and is typically played in doubles. Its popularity has surged across Europe in recent years due to its social nature and accessibility for players of all ages and skill levels. The inclusion of four Padel courts at the new David Lloyd Club reflects this growing trend.
Integrating Work and Wellness
Recognizing the shift towards flexible working arrangements, the new club incorporates a dedicated business lounge. This co-working space provides members with a quiet area to work, equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, and comfortable seating. This feature allows members to combine their professional and personal lives more seamlessly.
The business hub is designed for professionals who may work remotely or need a space to focus before or after a workout. This integration of work and wellness facilities reflects a modern understanding of lifestyle needs, where health, family, and career are increasingly interconnected.
The club's management believes this feature will be a significant draw for self-employed individuals and those with hybrid work schedules. It positions the club not just as a leisure destination but as a functional part of a member's daily routine.
Local officials have welcomed the new development. Councillor Mark Davies, representing the Manchester City Council, commented on the opening. "This is a fantastic addition to Manchester. The investment from David Lloyd Clubs brings not only top-tier wellness facilities but also valuable employment to our city. It's a testament to Manchester's status as a thriving place to live and do business."