David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawford Park, a major development representing a £12 million investment in the local community. The new facility, which opened its doors to members this week, is expected to create over 80 new jobs and provide a comprehensive range of fitness and leisure amenities for families and individuals.
The club is situated on a newly developed site adjacent to the Shawford retail complex and aims to become a central hub for community wellness and social activity. The opening marks the latest expansion for the premium fitness group, which now operates over 130 clubs across Europe.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £12 million facility in Shawford Park.
- The project has created more than 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- Key features include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, 10 tennis courts, and a state-of-the-art gym.
- The club also offers extensive family-friendly facilities, including a crèche and dedicated kids' activity zones.
A Significant Investment in Local Wellness Infrastructure
The development of the Shawford Park David Lloyd Club represents one of the most significant private investments in the area's leisure sector in recent years. The £12 million project was constructed over a 24-month period and has transformed a previously undeveloped plot of land into a modern wellness destination.
According to company officials, the investment underscores David Lloyd's commitment to providing premium facilities that promote health and community engagement. The new club is projected to serve thousands of members from the surrounding region, boosting the local economy through job creation and increased visitor traffic to the adjacent retail park.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £12 million
- Jobs Created: 80+
- Facility Size: 100,000 square feet
- Construction Timeline: 24 months
- Tennis Courts: 10 (5 indoor, 5 outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 3 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor, indoor kids' pool)
The creation of 80 new roles covers a wide range of positions, including fitness instructors, tennis coaches, spa therapists, café staff, and management personnel. The company has focused on recruiting from the local talent pool, providing valuable employment opportunities in the community.
Comprehensive Facilities for Fitness and Relaxation
The Shawford Park club offers a wide array of amenities designed to cater to diverse fitness levels and lifestyle needs. The centerpiece of the facility is its expansive, state-of-the-art gymnasium, which is equipped with the latest cardio and strength-training technology from leading brands.
Members have access to multiple fitness studios offering a packed schedule of classes, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, Pilates, and group cycling. These classes are a core component of the David Lloyd experience, with over 100 sessions scheduled each week.
The Spa Retreat and Aquatic Offerings
A key attraction is the luxurious Spa Retreat, an adults-only sanctuary designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. This area includes a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas with different temperature profiles, a crystal steam room, and heated relaxation beds.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym; we wanted to build a premium destination where members can focus on their entire wellbeing, from physical fitness to mental relaxation," said Sarah Jones, the new club's General Manager. "The Spa Retreat is a perfect example of that philosophy in action."
The club also boasts impressive aquatic facilities. A 25-meter indoor swimming pool is available for lane swimming and lessons, while a 20-meter heated outdoor pool allows for year-round enjoyment. A separate, shallower indoor pool is dedicated to children's swimming lessons and family splash time.
A Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Activities
Staying true to its heritage, the Shawford Park location places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facility includes a total of 10 tennis courts—five indoor courts with a cushioned acrylic surface and five floodlit outdoor courts. In addition, there are courts for badminton and squash available for booking.
A team of certified coaches will offer individual and group lessons for all ages and skill levels, alongside competitive leagues and social tournaments to foster a vibrant tennis community.
The David Lloyd Clubs Legacy
Founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd, the company started with a single club in Heston, Middlesex. The brand's initial focus was on creating high-quality, family-oriented racquet clubs. Over the decades, it has evolved to become a leading name in the premium health and fitness sector, expanding its offerings to include comprehensive gym facilities, spas, and social spaces.
The club is also designed to be exceptionally family-friendly. A dedicated DL Kids zone provides a schedule of supervised activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and games. For younger children, a fully-staffed crèche allows parents to enjoy the club's facilities with peace of mind. The Clubroom, a spacious café and lounge area, serves as a social hub for members to eat, work, and relax.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is seen as a major boost for Shawford Park and the wider community. Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting its positive impact on employment and its role in promoting a healthier lifestyle for residents.
The club's management has expressed a desire to integrate into the local community by partnering with local schools and sports organizations to promote youth fitness programs.
"We are thrilled to finally open our doors in Shawford Park," stated General Manager Sarah Jones. "The response from the community has been incredibly positive, and we've already signed up a significant number of founding members. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the local fabric, helping our members achieve their health and wellness goals for years to come."
With its comprehensive offerings and significant investment, the new David Lloyd Club is positioned to become a cornerstone of the community's leisure and social landscape, setting a new standard for fitness facilities in the region.