David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and racquets club in Shawford, Hampshire, following a £14 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's 103rd club in the UK, has created more than 80 new jobs and offers a wide range of premium health, wellness, and leisure amenities for families and individuals.
Located just outside Winchester, the club is designed to provide a comprehensive country club experience. It features extensive fitness areas, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa garden, and dedicated zones for children, positioning it as a significant new destination for the local community.
Key Takeaways
- A £14 million investment was made to develop the new David Lloyd Club in Shawford.
- The facility has generated over 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities in the area.
- Key features include a 1,000 sq m gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury Spa Garden, and extensive family facilities.
- The club is the 103rd David Lloyd location in the United Kingdom, continuing the company's expansion.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawford club represents a significant capital investment by David Lloyd Leisure, totaling £14 million. This funding covered the construction of the brand-new facility and the installation of state-of-the-art equipment and luxury finishes throughout the property.
According to the company, the project was designed to meet growing demand for premium, family-focused health and wellness services in the Winchester area. The construction process adhered to modern building standards, with an emphasis on creating an inviting and high-quality environment.
Stacey Adams, the General Manager for the new Shawford club, commented on the opening.
“We are thrilled to finally open our doors and welcome the community into this fantastic new club. The level of investment reflects our commitment to providing the best possible facilities for our members. Our goal is to be more than just a gym; we want to be a place where families can spend quality time together, focusing on their health and well-being.”
Inside the New Shawford Facility
The new David Lloyd Club is equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities designed to cater to a diverse membership base. The facilities are spread across a spacious layout, with distinct zones for fitness, relaxation, and family activities.
Fitness and Training Areas
At the core of the club is a 1,000 square metre gymnasium, which houses advanced equipment for cardiovascular and strength training. The gym floor is zoned to provide dedicated areas for different workout styles, including free weights, functional training, and cardio machines with integrated entertainment systems.
In addition to the main gym, the club features several boutique-style studios for group exercise. These include:
- A BLAZE Studio: Offering a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class that combines cardio, strength, and combat exercises.
- A SPIRIT Studio: A dedicated space for holistic classes such as yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- A Group Cycling Studio: Featuring modern stationary bikes for high-energy spin classes.
Aquatic and Spa Facilities
The club offers extensive swimming facilities for both recreational and fitness-focused members. This includes a 25-metre indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a heated 20-metre outdoor pool that allows for year-round use.
The Spa Garden
A central feature of the club is its luxurious adults-only Spa Garden. This outdoor wellness area includes a hydro pool, a sauna, a steam room, and heated relaxation beds, providing a tranquil space for members to unwind.
The spa facilities are designed to offer a premium relaxation experience, separate from the main fitness and family areas of the club. This ensures a quiet and restorative atmosphere for adult members seeking to de-stress and recover.
Family and Children's Amenities
A key part of the David Lloyd model is its focus on family. The Shawford club includes a dedicated DL Kids club area with facilities for various age groups. The club also offers a crèche service for younger children, allowing parents to use the facilities with peace of mind.
The DL Kids program provides a schedule of coached activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and other structured play sessions. These are designed to keep children active and engaged while parents enjoy their own workouts or relaxation time.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd Shawford has had a direct positive impact on the local economy through the creation of more than 80 jobs. These roles span a range of functions, including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, maintenance, and childcare.
About David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. It operates 132 clubs, with 103 in the UK and 29 across mainland Europe. The company is known for its racquets heritage and its focus on providing premium, family-oriented club environments.
The company has stated its intention to source staff from the local area where possible, contributing to regional employment. The roles offer various levels of seniority and provide opportunities for career development within the leisure industry.
Michelle Chambers-Crosby, a regional manager for the group, spoke about the club's role in the community.
“Every new club we open is an opportunity to become part of the local fabric. We’ve already started building relationships with local groups and are excited to offer a space that promotes a healthy and active lifestyle for Shawford and Winchester residents.”
The club is expected to attract members from a wide radius, potentially increasing footfall to the area and benefiting other nearby businesses. It also provides a new social hub for residents, with an integrated Clubroom café and bar that serves as a space for members to work, socialize, and dine.