David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new multi-million pound health, spa, and racquets club in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The facility, located at the Wendlebury Interchange, represents a significant investment in the region's wellness and leisure sector, creating over 100 new jobs and offering extensive amenities to members.
The 9,300-square-metre club is the company's 103rd location in the UK and aims to provide a premium destination for fitness and relaxation for individuals and families in the surrounding community. The opening follows a period of construction and recruitment, culminating in a facility equipped with advanced fitness technology and luxury spa features.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Bicester, Oxfordshire, marking the company's 103rd UK location.
- The project involved a £12 million investment and created more than 100 jobs in the local area.
- The facility includes a state-of-the-art gym, three swimming pools, tennis and badminton courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club offers dedicated family areas, including a kids' club, as well as an adults-only 'Clubroom' for work and relaxation.
A £12 Million Investment in Local Wellness
The development of the Bicester club represents a £12 million investment by David Lloyd Leisure. This funding has facilitated the construction of a large-scale facility designed to meet a wide range of health and fitness needs. The project has been a notable addition to the local economy, not only through the initial construction phase but also with the creation of long-term employment opportunities.
According to the company, the club has generated over 100 new positions. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, spa therapy, and club management. The recruitment drive focused on hiring from the local talent pool, contributing directly to employment in Bicester and the wider Cherwell district.
Extensive Fitness and Racquet Facilities
At the core of the new club is its extensive range of fitness equipment and sports facilities. The main gymnasium covers a large area and is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. This includes a variety of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a dedicated free weights section.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club offers:
- Three indoor tennis courts
- Four badminton courts
- Two squash courts
These facilities are designed to accommodate players of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced competitors. The club plans to offer coaching programs and internal leagues to foster a strong community around these sports.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Area: 9,300 square metres
- Investment: £12 million
- New Jobs: Over 100
- Swimming Pools: 3 (20m indoor, 25m outdoor, kids' splash pool)
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor courts
Advanced Spa and Relaxation Areas
A significant feature of the Bicester location is its luxurious spa, known as the 'Spa Retreat'. This area is designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, separate from the main fitness zones. The spa provides a tranquil environment with a comprehensive selection of hydrotherapy and heat experiences.
Members can access a Finnish sauna, a salt steam room, and an ice cave, among other amenities. The centerpiece of the Spa Retreat is a large hydrotherapy pool. The club also features an outdoor spa garden, allowing members to relax in a natural setting. This focus on wellness aligns with a growing industry trend toward holistic health that combines physical fitness with mental relaxation.
"We are thrilled to be officially opening our new club in Bicester. Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure these fantastic new facilities are ready, and we can’t wait to welcome our first members." - Jack Phillips, General Manager
Family-Friendly and Social Spaces
David Lloyd Bicester has been designed to cater to families as well as individual adults. The club includes dedicated areas for children, featuring a DL Kids club that offers a schedule of supervised activities. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in age-appropriate play and sports.
The club also features a dedicated family swimming area with a splash pool for younger children. This is in addition to the separate indoor and outdoor pools intended for lane swimming and general use.
About David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a prominent health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. It operates 103 clubs in the UK and an additional 30 clubs across mainland Europe. The company focuses on providing premium, family-oriented facilities that combine fitness, racquets, swimming, and social spaces.
For adults seeking a quiet space, the club incorporates a 'Clubroom' with a dedicated business area. This space is intended for remote working, socializing, or relaxing. It offers an adults-only environment with food and beverage service, reflecting the club's model of serving as a multi-purpose lifestyle destination.
The opening of the Bicester club is part of David Lloyd Leisure's ongoing expansion strategy. The company continues to identify new locations for development, responding to increased consumer demand for high-quality health and wellness facilities that offer a comprehensive range of services beyond a traditional gym.