David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest facility in Bicester, a £11.5 million investment located at the Wendlebury Interchange business park. The premium health and wellness club is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and provide extensive fitness and relaxation amenities to the local community.
The new club, which is the 103rd in the UK for the company, features a wide range of facilities including a state-of-the-art gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa. The development aims to meet the growing demand for comprehensive wellness services in the rapidly expanding Oxfordshire town.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £11.5 million club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The facility is located at the Wendlebury Interchange business park and has created around 80 jobs.
- Key features include a 10,000 sq ft gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club also offers extensive family-friendly facilities, including a DL Kids area and a business hub for remote working.
New Facility Addresses Regional Growth
The town of Bicester has experienced significant population growth in recent years, driven by new housing developments and its strategic location. This expansion created a clear demand for high-quality leisure and wellness facilities, a gap David Lloyd aims to fill with its new club.
According to local planning documents, the club is positioned to serve not only Bicester but also surrounding villages. Its location near major transport links like the A34, A41, and M40 motorway makes it accessible to a wider regional population.
Strategic Location
The Wendlebury Interchange was selected for its accessibility and proximity to both residential areas and commercial zones. The business park is part of a broader development plan for the area, designed to bring new services and employment opportunities to Bicester.
The investment reflects confidence in the local economy and the community's interest in health and fitness. The creation of 80 full-time and part-time positions provides a notable boost to local employment, with roles ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative and hospitality staff.
A Comprehensive Range of Amenities
The Bicester club is designed to be a multi-purpose destination for individuals and families. The facilities are spread across a large site, offering a diverse set of activities and services under one roof.
Fitness and Training Areas
At the heart of the club is a 10,000 square foot gymnasium. The gym is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands, including a variety of cardio machines, weightlifting equipment, and functional training zones.
Members have access to a wide array of group exercise classes. The club includes three dedicated studios: one for high-impact workouts, a Mind & Body studio for yoga and Pilates, and an indoor cycling studio. This setup allows for a diverse timetable of classes catering to different fitness levels and preferences.
Facility by the Numbers
- Investment: £11.5 Million
- Gym Size: 10,000 sq ft
- Jobs Created: ~80
- Indoor Pool: 25 meters
- Outdoor Pool: 20 meters
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor, 3 outdoor
Aquatics and Racquet Sports
A significant feature of the new club is its extensive aquatic facilities. It includes a heated 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower family splash pool for children.
Additionally, a 20-meter heated outdoor pool allows for year-round swimming. This outdoor area is complemented by a patio with sun loungers, creating a resort-like atmosphere during warmer months.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club offers three indoor tennis courts and three outdoor courts. It also features courts for badminton and squash, providing some of the best racquet facilities in the region. Coaching programs are available for both adults and children.
Luxury Spa and Relaxation Zones
Beyond fitness, the David Lloyd club in Bicester places a strong emphasis on wellness and recovery. The facility includes a purpose-built luxury spa designed for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The Spa Retreat features a range of hydrotherapy experiences, including a hydro-pool, sauna, steam room, and an ice fountain. Heated relaxation beds and an outdoor spa garden provide quiet spaces for members to unwind.
"We aim to provide a sanctuary where members can focus on their physical and mental wellbeing. The Spa Retreat is central to that vision, offering a premium space to relax and recover," stated a David Lloyd spokesperson during the pre-opening tour.
This focus on holistic wellness aligns with broader industry trends where consumers are seeking integrated health solutions that combine fitness, relaxation, and social elements.
Family-Friendly and Social Spaces
David Lloyd has designed the Bicester club to be a destination for the entire family. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids area with activities and coaching for children aged 3 to 11. This allows parents to use the gym or attend classes while their children are supervised in a safe and engaging environment.
The Clubroom and Business Hub
A central social space, known as the Clubroom, serves as a café, restaurant, and lounge. It offers a full menu of food and drinks, with both indoor and outdoor seating. This area is intended to be a social hub where members can meet, eat, and relax.
Recognizing the rise of remote work, the club also includes a dedicated business area. This space provides members with a quiet environment to work, complete with charging stations and high-speed Wi-Fi. This feature transforms the club from a purely leisure facility into a versatile space that accommodates modern lifestyles.
The combination of fitness, wellness, family, and social facilities positions the new David Lloyd club as a significant addition to the Bicester community, offering a comprehensive lifestyle destination for its members.