David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest facility in Northwood, Hertfordshire, following a significant £14 million investment. The state-of-the-art club is expected to create over 100 local jobs and provide extensive health, wellness, and leisure amenities to the community.
The opening marks the 104th club in the UK for the David Lloyd group and is part of a broader strategy of investing in premium family-oriented leisure centers. The Northwood facility features advanced gym equipment, multiple swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports courts, positioning it as a major new destination for local residents.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd has invested £14 million in a new health and leisure club in Northwood, Hertfordshire.
- The new facility has created more than 100 full-time and part-time employment opportunities in the area.
- Amenities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a state-of-the-art gym, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is designed to cater to families, with dedicated kids' activities and a crèche service.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Northwood David Lloyd Club represents a substantial financial commitment to the Hertfordshire region. The £14 million project was designed to meet the growing demand for premium health and wellness facilities in affluent suburban areas.
Construction of the multi-acre site took approximately 18 months to complete. According to company statements, the project focused on using sustainable building materials and energy-efficient systems, including modern heating and lighting technologies to reduce the facility's environmental footprint.
Background on David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd, the company has grown to become one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, serving more than 730,000 members. The brand is known for its family-friendly environment and focus on racquet sports alongside traditional gym and spa facilities.
The new club is strategically located to serve residents of Northwood, Rickmansworth, and surrounding communities. Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting its positive economic impact through job creation and the provision of high-quality recreational infrastructure.
Extensive Facilities and Member Offerings
The Northwood club offers a comprehensive range of amenities designed to appeal to individuals and families alike. The scope of the facilities underscores the brand's commitment to providing an all-encompassing leisure experience.
Health and Fitness Zones
The centerpiece of the fitness area is a large, modern gymnasium equipped with the latest Technogym cardio and strength-training machines. The gym floor is zoned into specific areas for different workout styles, including sections for functional training, weightlifting, and cardio.
In addition to the main gym, there are three dedicated group exercise studios. These will host a packed schedule of over 130 classes each week, including popular options like yoga, Pilates, spinning, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). A specialized Blaze studio, offering a unique boutique-style HIIT workout, is also a key feature.
By the Numbers: Northwood Club
- Investment: £14 million
- Jobs Created: Over 100
- UK Club Number: 104th
- Weekly Classes: 130+
- Indoor Tennis Courts: 4
- Outdoor Tennis Courts: 3
Swimming and Spa Facilities
Water-based activities are a significant part of the club's offerings. The facility includes two separate swimming pools:
- A 25-meter indoor lap pool for serious swimmers.
- A heated 20-meter outdoor pool, designed for leisure and family use, which will be open year-round.
Adjacent to the aquatic facilities is a luxury spa area. Known as the Spa Retreat, it provides a sanctuary for relaxation and recovery. It features a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas, steam rooms, and heated relaxation beds. Access to the Spa Retreat is included in standard membership packages.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Activities
Staying true to its heritage, the David Lloyd Club in Northwood places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The club boasts a total of seven tennis courts, including four indoor courts with a cushioned acrylic surface and three floodlit outdoor courts. The facility will also offer badminton and squash courts.
A team of certified coaches will be on hand to provide lessons and organize tournaments for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. The club aims to build a vibrant racquet sports community in the local area.
"Our goal is to create more than just a gym; we want to build a community hub where families can spend quality time together, pursuing active and healthy lifestyles."
The club is explicitly designed to be family-friendly. A dedicated DL Kids area will host a variety of supervised activities, and a crèche service will be available for parents using the facilities. The on-site Clubroom serves as a social space, offering a restaurant and café with both indoor and outdoor terrace seating for members to socialize and relax.
Economic and Social Impact
The opening of the Northwood club is a significant local economic event. The creation of over 100 jobs provides a welcome boost to the regional employment market. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff.
Furthermore, the development is expected to have a positive knock-on effect for other local businesses. The influx of members and staff to the area could increase footfall for nearby shops and services. The club itself has committed to sourcing supplies and services from local providers where possible.
The long-term social impact is centered on promoting health and well-being. By providing a high-quality, accessible venue for exercise and recreation, the club aims to encourage more residents to adopt active lifestyles. This aligns with broader public health goals aimed at reducing inactivity and promoting mental and physical wellness within the community.