David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Northwood, a £15 million project aimed at providing comprehensive health, wellness, and leisure services to the local community. The expansive new club, the company's 103rd in the UK, features a wide range of state-of-the-art amenities, including a luxury spa, multiple swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports facilities.
The development has created over 80 new full-time and part-time jobs and is expected to become a central hub for family fitness and social activities in the region. The opening marks a significant investment in the area's recreational infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd has invested £15 million into its new Northwood location.
- The club has generated more than 80 new jobs for the local economy.
- Key features include a luxury spa, indoor and outdoor pools, 10 tennis courts, and a large gym.
- The facility is designed to cater to families with dedicated kids' clubs and activities.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The new David Lloyd Club in Northwood represents a significant financial commitment to community health and wellbeing. The £15 million investment has transformed a previously underdeveloped site into a premier destination for fitness and relaxation. Construction of the facility took approximately 18 months to complete.
A key benefit for the local area is job creation. According to the company, the club has hired over 80 staff members in various roles, from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative and hospitality personnel. This provides a welcome boost to the local employment market.
Background on David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd, the company has grown to become one of Europe's leading health and fitness groups. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, known for their focus on racquet sports and family-friendly environments.
Inside the New Northwood Facility
The Northwood club is designed to offer a holistic wellness experience. The facilities are spread across a large, modern complex and cater to a wide range of interests and fitness levels.
Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is the expansive gymnasium, which is equipped with the latest technology from leading brands. This includes a variety of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a dedicated free weights area. The club also features multiple studios for group exercise classes.
Members have access to a diverse timetable of over 120 classes per week, including popular options like yoga, Pilates, spinning, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Personal training services are also available for members seeking tailored fitness plans.
Aquatic and Spa Facilities
A major attraction is the club's extensive aquatic and spa area, known as the Spa Retreat. This section is designed for relaxation and recovery and is exclusively for adult members.
Spa Retreat Features
- Hydrotherapy pool
- Himalayan salt sauna
- Eucalyptus-infused steam room
- Ice fountain and feature showers
- Heated relaxation beds
In addition to the spa, the club boasts both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and a heated 20-meter outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. Dedicated splash pools and swimming lessons are available for younger members.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Activities
Staying true to its heritage, the David Lloyd Northwood club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facility includes a total of 10 tennis courts, with both indoor and outdoor options to accommodate play in any weather. The club also offers badminton and squash courts.
Coaching programs are available for all ages and skill levels, from junior development squads to adult beginner clinics. The club aims to build a vibrant community around these sports.
"Our goal has always been to create spaces where families can be active and spend quality time together. The Northwood club embodies this philosophy with facilities that cater to everyone, from toddlers to grandparents."
The club is also structured to be family-friendly. A dedicated DL Kids club offers a range of supervised activities, allowing parents to use the gym or spa. There is also a soft-play area, a family-friendly café, and specific family swim times.
Membership and Community Impact
Membership for the David Lloyd Northwood club is available through various packages, including options for individuals, couples, and families. While pricing is at the premium end of the market, the company emphasizes the all-inclusive nature of the membership, which covers access to most facilities and classes.
Local officials have welcomed the investment. Councillor James Peterson, responsible for economic development, noted the project's positive impact. "This new David Lloyd Club is more than just a gym; it's a significant community asset that promotes healthy lifestyles and brings new jobs and investment to Northwood," he stated.
The club also plans to engage with the local community through events and partnerships with local schools and sports organizations. The opening weekend saw hundreds of new members sign up, indicating strong initial demand for the new facility.