David Lloyd Clubs has announced an £11 million investment to build a new premium health, spa, and racquets club in Rugby, Warwickshire. The facility, scheduled to open in late 2024, is expected to create approximately 70 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
The new club will be located on the grounds of Rugby School, situated at the junction of the A426 and a new link road south of the town. It aims to provide a comprehensive wellness destination for families and individuals.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs is investing £11 million in a new facility in Rugby, Warwickshire.
- The project will generate around 70 local employment opportunities.
- The club is set to open its doors to the public in late 2024.
- Key features include advanced gym equipment, swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports facilities, including Padel courts.
New Facility Details and Investment
The development represents a significant investment in the region's leisure and wellness sector. The £11 million project will fund the construction of a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet a growing demand for premium health and fitness services.
The club's location has been strategically chosen to be accessible to residents of Rugby and surrounding areas, including the new Houlton housing development. Construction is underway, with the company aiming for a completion date before the end of 2024.
Employment and Economic Impact
A key benefit for the local community is the creation of new jobs. The company plans to hire for around 70 positions, spanning roles in fitness instruction, hospitality, operations, and management. This will provide a boost to the local economy and offer new career paths for residents.
Jack Phillips, the newly appointed General Manager for the Rugby club, commented on the recruitment process. He expressed his enthusiasm for assembling a team to manage the new site.
"I am delighted to have been appointed as General Manager for the new Club in Rugby. I am excited to start building a team who will be as passionate as I am about health, wellness, and providing an exceptional service to our members," Phillips stated.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness Offerings
The new David Lloyd Club is designed to be a multi-purpose destination. It will feature a wide range of facilities catering to different fitness levels, interests, and age groups.
Facility Highlights at a Glance
- Gym: A 100+ station gym with cutting-edge equipment.
- Studios: Four dedicated group exercise studios, including Mind & Body, High Energy, and a Cyclone studio.
- Pools: Both indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools.
- Spa: A luxury spa featuring a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, heated beds, and an outdoor spa garden.
- Racquets: Five outdoor tennis courts and three indoor Padel tennis courts.
- Family: Dedicated DL Kids facilities and activity programmes.
Focus on Modern Fitness and Relaxation
The gym will be equipped with the latest fitness technology to provide a modern workout experience. The inclusion of specialized studios reflects current trends in group fitness, offering a variety of classes from high-intensity interval training to yoga and Pilates.
The spa area, branded as the 'Spa Retreat', is a central feature. It is designed to provide a space for relaxation and recovery, complete with both indoor and outdoor elements. This aligns with a growing consumer focus on holistic wellness that combines physical activity with mental recuperation.
Expansion of Racquet Sports
A significant part of the new club will be its racquet sports facilities. In addition to five tournament-quality tennis courts, the club will feature three indoor Padel courts. This move capitalizes on the rising popularity of Padel, a sport that combines elements of tennis and squash.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports globally. It is played in doubles on an enclosed court roughly one-third the size of a tennis court. Its simplicity and social nature have made it highly popular across Europe and it is now gaining significant traction in the UK.
The inclusion of indoor Padel courts ensures that members can play year-round, regardless of the weather. This investment positions the Rugby club as a regional hub for the emerging sport.
A Community-Focused Space
Beyond fitness equipment, the club is designed to serve as a social hub. A dedicated Clubroom with an indoor and outdoor terrace area will provide a space for members to socialize, eat, and relax.
For remote workers, a business lounge will offer a quiet space with Wi-Fi access. This acknowledges the shift towards flexible working arrangements and provides added value for members who may need a place to work before or after a fitness session.
Family-Friendly Environment
The club will also have a strong focus on family activities. A dedicated DL Kids programme will offer activities for younger members, allowing parents to use the club's facilities. This all-encompassing approach aims to attract a wide demographic, from individuals to families.
Stuart Caswell, New Openings Manager at David Lloyd Clubs, highlighted the company's vision for the new location.
"The Club will be a fantastic addition to the local area, offering a breadth of health, wellness and racquets facilities for the whole family. We are excited to be opening our first David Lloyd Club in Rugby, and we're sure that our new and exciting Club will be a welcome addition for the community," Caswell said.
With its comprehensive facilities and focus on community, the new David Lloyd Club in Rugby is set to become a prominent feature in the town's leisure landscape when it opens later this year.