David Lloyd Leisure has announced the official opening of its newest health and wellness club in Shawford, following a £15 million investment into the local economy. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to create over 120 jobs and provide extensive fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented amenities to the community.
The new club, situated on a redeveloped brownfield site just outside Winchester, represents one of the company's most significant regional investments in recent years. It features a comprehensive range of facilities designed to cater to all age groups and fitness levels, positioning it as a major new destination for health and leisure in the area.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £15 million to open a new health and wellness club in Shawford.
- The project has created more than 120 new full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- The facility includes advanced fitness equipment, multiple swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports courts.
- The club is designed with a strong focus on family, offering dedicated kids' zones and family-friendly dining options.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawford David Lloyd Club is a significant project for the region. The £15 million investment covers the construction of the main building, installation of cutting-edge equipment, and extensive landscaping of the surrounding grounds. This financial commitment underscores the company's confidence in the local market and its strategy of expanding its premium offerings outside of major metropolitan centers.
According to company officials, the project aims to address a growing demand for high-quality, family-focused health facilities. The club's design and services were planned after extensive local market research, which identified a need for integrated wellness services that combine fitness, relaxation, and social activities under one roof.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £15 million
- Facility Size: 100,000 square feet
- Jobs Created: 120+
- Tennis Courts: 10 (indoor and outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
Economic and Employment Impact
The creation of 120 new jobs is a substantial boost for the local employment market. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management, hospitality, and maintenance staff. The recruitment drive prioritized local candidates, ensuring the economic benefits of the new club are felt directly within the Shawford and Winchester communities.
Local council members have welcomed the development, citing its positive economic ripple effects. The construction phase involved numerous local contractors and suppliers, and the operational club is expected to continue sourcing goods and services from regional businesses.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Services
The new Shawford club is equipped with a wide array of amenities that set a new standard for leisure centers in the region. The centerpiece is a spacious, modern gymnasium featuring the latest cardio and strength training equipment from leading brands like Technogym and Life Fitness. The gym floor is zoned for different workout styles, including areas for functional training, free weights, and group cycling studios.
"Our goal with the Shawford club was to create a comprehensive wellness destination for the entire family," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs. "We've combined our signature fitness and racquet facilities with a luxurious spa and vibrant social spaces to offer a truly unique member experience."
Beyond the gym, the club offers an impressive range of services tailored to different member needs.
Racquet Sports and Swimming
A key feature of the new club is its extensive racquet sports facilities. Members have access to 10 championship-standard tennis courts, including both indoor courts for year-round play and outdoor courts for the summer months. The club also features badminton and squash courts, with coaching programs available for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players.
The aquatic facilities are equally comprehensive. A 25-meter indoor lap pool is complemented by a heated 20-meter outdoor pool, allowing for swimming in all seasons. The club also offers a dedicated indoor children's splash pool, swimming lessons for all ages, and aqua aerobics classes.
The David Lloyd Leisure Group
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The company is known for its premium, family-oriented clubs that combine fitness facilities with racquet sports, swimming pools, and spa services.
A Focus on Family and Relaxation
A central element of the David Lloyd brand is its family-friendly approach, which is evident in the Shawford club's design. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids zone, offering a variety of supervised activities, classes, and play areas for children. This allows parents to enjoy their own workouts or relaxation time, knowing their children are engaged in a safe and stimulating environment.
The club also features a large Clubroom, a restaurant and café area designed as a social hub for members. With indoor and outdoor seating, it offers a space for members to work, socialize, or enjoy a meal with family and friends.
The Spa Retreat
For those seeking relaxation and recovery, the club includes a luxurious Spa Retreat. This adult-only area provides a tranquil escape with a range of hydrotherapy pools, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, and an ice fountain. The spa also offers a menu of professional treatments, including massages and facials, further enhancing the club's position as a holistic wellness center.
The integration of these diverse facilities reflects a modern approach to health, where physical fitness, mental well-being, and social connection are all considered essential components of a healthy lifestyle. The Shawford club is poised to become a central part of the community for years to come.