David Lloyd Clubs has announced the upcoming opening of its newest facility in Shawford, following a £12 million investment. The new health and wellness club, set to open next month, is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and provide a wide range of premium fitness and leisure amenities for the local community.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club is opening in Shawford, representing a £12 million investment in the area.
- The facility will create around 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- Features include a luxury spa, multiple swimming pools, extensive racquet sports facilities, and dedicated family areas.
- The club will also introduce "Blaze Rebel," a new high-intensity workout format exclusive to the location.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness and Economy
The new David Lloyd Club in Shawford marks a significant development for the region's leisure sector. The £12 million project transforms the former Hampshire Racquets and Health Club site into a modern, comprehensive wellness destination. Construction has been ongoing for the past year, with the final stages now nearing completion.
According to company officials, the investment underscores David Lloyd's commitment to providing high-quality facilities that promote health and community. The creation of 80 new jobs is also a notable economic benefit for Shawford and the surrounding Winchester area, offering roles in fitness instruction, hospitality, and club management.
Background on David Lloyd Clubs
David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. Founded in 1982, the company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The brand is known for its family-oriented approach, combining fitness gyms with extensive racquet sports facilities and social spaces.
Inside the New Shawford Facility
The Shawford club is designed to cater to a wide range of members, from serious athletes to families seeking recreational activities. The extensive refurbishment and new construction have resulted in a facility equipped with the latest technology and amenities.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Spa Areas
At the heart of the club is a large, modern gym featuring advanced equipment from leading manufacturers. The space is divided into zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members will have access to a team of personal trainers and a schedule of group exercise classes.
A key highlight is the luxurious spa retreat, designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and recovery. It includes:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice cave and feature showers
- Heated relaxation beds
- An outdoor spa garden for use in warmer months
This spa area is intended to provide a complete wellness experience, moving beyond just physical exercise to include mental well-being and rejuvenation.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £12 Million
- New Jobs: Approx. 80
- Tennis Courts: 10 (indoor and outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
- Group Classes: Over 100 classes per week
Exclusive Offerings and Family-Friendly Features
The Shawford location will be one of the first clubs to launch "Blaze Rebel," a new signature workout. Described as a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class, it combines treadmill work, strength exercises, and boxing in a studio with dynamic lighting and energetic music. This new format aims to attract members looking for challenging and engaging group workouts.
"We are incredibly excited to bring the David Lloyd brand to Shawford. This club represents our latest thinking in health, wellness, and leisure, offering something for everyone in the family. Our goal is to create a community hub where people can improve their well-being and spend quality time together."
Focus on Families and Racquet Sports
True to the David Lloyd brand, the new club places a strong emphasis on family activities. The DL Kids area will host a variety of supervised programs for children, including sports coaching, arts and crafts, and holiday camps. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities.
Racquet sports are another cornerstone of the facility. The club boasts 10 tennis courts, with both indoor and outdoor options, alongside facilities for squash and badminton. A comprehensive coaching program will be available for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to competitive players.
Membership and Community Impact
The club is now accepting applications for founding memberships, offering special rates ahead of the official opening. Membership packages are structured to provide different levels of access, including options for individuals, couples, and families. While specific pricing has not been publicly detailed, it is expected to align with the premium positioning of the David Lloyd brand.
The opening is anticipated to have a positive ripple effect on the local community. Beyond direct employment, the club is expected to attract visitors to the area and support nearby businesses. The facility also includes a Clubroom with an indoor and outdoor terrace, which will serve as a social space for members to work, relax, and dine.
As the opening date approaches, local residents are showing significant interest. The combination of high-end fitness equipment, a luxury spa, and extensive family-oriented programming positions the new David Lloyd Shawford as a major addition to the region's leisure landscape.