David Lloyd Clubs has opened a new £25 million health and leisure facility in Oakwood Valley, creating over 100 new jobs and introducing a wide range of premium fitness and wellness amenities to the community. The new club, which officially opened its doors this week, marks a significant investment in the region's leisure sector.
The facility spans 100,000 square feet and is designed to cater to families and individuals with a comprehensive offering that includes advanced gym equipment, multiple swimming pools, and extensive spa facilities. This opening is part of David Lloyd's ongoing strategy to expand its presence in key suburban areas across the country.
Key Takeaways
- New Facility: David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £25 million club in Oakwood Valley.
- Economic Impact: The project has generated more than 100 full-time and part-time employment opportunities for the local community.
- Premium Amenities: The club features a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports facilities.
- Family Focus: A dedicated DL Kids club, family-friendly changing rooms, and programming for all ages are central to the new location's design.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The new David Lloyd club represents one of the largest private investments in Oakwood Valley's leisure infrastructure in the last decade. The £25 million development underscores the company's confidence in the local market and its commitment to promoting health and wellness.
Construction of the facility took approximately 18 months to complete and involved local contractors and suppliers where possible, providing a secondary boost to the regional economy. The club is expected to serve thousands of members from Oakwood Valley and surrounding neighborhoods.
Background on David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. The company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, known for their premium, family-oriented facilities. The brand focuses on providing a comprehensive member experience that goes beyond a standard gym.
Inside the New Oakwood Valley Club
The Oakwood Valley facility offers a wide array of amenities designed to meet diverse fitness and relaxation needs. Members have access to a large, modern gym floor equipped with the latest technology and a variety of workout zones.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Gym Facilities
The gymnasium is equipped with advanced cardio and strength training machines from Technogym. It includes dedicated zones for functional training, free weights, and SYNRGY360 workout systems. According to the club, this setup allows for a highly personalized and effective training experience.
In addition to the main gym, there are three specialized group exercise studios. These studios will host over 130 classes each week, including high-intensity options like BLAZE and holistic wellness sessions such as SPIRIT, which combines yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
"Our goal was to create a comprehensive wellness destination for the entire family," said Sarah Jenkins, the newly appointed General Manager of the Oakwood Valley club. "We have invested in the best equipment and designed a class schedule that offers something for every fitness level and interest."
Aquatic and Spa Amenities
A significant feature of the new club is its extensive aquatic and spa area. The facility includes both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming.
The luxurious spa, branded as the 'Spa Retreat,' is designed as an adult-only sanctuary. Key features include:
- A large hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice fountain and feature showers
- Heated relaxation beds
- An outdoor spa garden with a sauna
These facilities aim to provide a complete wellness journey, focusing on both physical fitness and mental relaxation and recovery.
Facility by the Numbers
- Investment: £25 million
- Total Area: 100,000 sq ft
- Jobs Created: 100+
- Tennis Courts: 5 indoor, 3 outdoor
- Weekly Classes: Over 130
- Pools: 2 (one indoor, one outdoor)
Focus on Family and Community
A core part of the David Lloyd model is its emphasis on family. The Oakwood Valley club features a dedicated DL Kids facility with over 300 square meters of activity space. The area includes a soft-play structure, arts and crafts stations, and organized activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years.
The club also offers specialized coaching programs for children in tennis and swimming, aligning with the brand's heritage in racquet sports. This integrated approach allows parents to work out while their children participate in supervised activities.
The social hub of the club is the 'Clubroom,' a spacious restaurant and lounge area with an outdoor patio. It offers a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a dedicated space for adults to work or relax. This area is intended to foster a sense of community among members.
Economic and Social Impact
The opening is a significant event for the local economy. The creation of more than 100 jobs spans various roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, restaurant staff, and management positions. This provides a notable boost to local employment.
Local officials have welcomed the investment. While no official statements have been released, the development is seen as a positive addition that enhances the quality of life for residents and makes the area more attractive for new families and professionals.
A spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs commented on the launch strategy. "We carefully select locations where we believe our premium family offering will be well-received. Oakwood Valley has a vibrant community that we are excited to become a part of. We are not just opening a gym; we are creating a community hub for health, wellness, and socializing."
The club began its pre-opening membership sales several months ago and reports strong initial enrollment, indicating high demand for such a facility in the area. The long-term success of the club will depend on its ability to maintain high standards and integrate into the local community fabric.