David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawford, Hampshire, following a £15 million investment. The new facility, which opened its doors to members this week, is expected to create over 100 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local community.
The club aims to provide a comprehensive range of fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented activities. It features advanced gym equipment, multiple swimming pools, and extensive spa facilities, positioning it as a significant addition to the region's leisure offerings.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawford, Hampshire, representing a £15 million investment.
- The facility is projected to create more than 100 local jobs.
- Key features include a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa retreat, and dedicated family areas.
- The club offers extensive racquet sports facilities, including tennis and padel courts.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawford David Lloyd Club represents a significant financial commitment to the area. The £15 million project was designed to cater to a growing demand for premium health and wellness services in the Hampshire region. Construction was completed on schedule, with the club now fully operational.
According to company representatives, the investment reflects confidence in the local economy and a strategy to expand their footprint in key suburban locations. The facility is one of several new clubs planned by the group over the next two years.
Background on David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The company is known for its family-friendly environment and extensive range of facilities that go beyond a standard gym.
The new club is expected to not only provide wellness amenities but also serve as a community hub. Local officials have welcomed the development, citing the positive economic impact of job creation and the provision of high-quality recreational facilities for residents.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Services
The Shawford club boasts an impressive array of modern amenities designed to cater to a wide range of members, from serious athletes to families seeking recreational activities. The facilities are spread across a large, purpose-built site with distinct zones for different activities.
Advanced Fitness and Gymnasium
The centerpiece of the club is its spacious gymnasium, equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. Members have access to a wide variety of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a dedicated functional fitness area. The gym floor is staffed by qualified personal trainers available for one-on-one sessions and guidance.
"Our goal was to create a fitness space that is both inspiring and effective. We have invested in cutting-edge equipment that tracks performance and offers interactive workouts to keep our members motivated," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd.
In addition to the main gym, there are three dedicated group exercise studios. These studios will host a packed timetable of over 130 classes per week, including popular options like BodyPump, yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Aquatic and Spa Facilities
A key attraction of the new club is its extensive aquatic offering. The facility includes two swimming pools: a 25-metre indoor lane pool for serious swimmers and a heated 20-metre outdoor pool for leisure and family use, open year-round.
Adjacent to the pools is the luxurious Spa Retreat, an adults-only sanctuary designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa features:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice fountain
- Heated relaxation beds
- An outdoor spa garden with a sauna and relaxation area
Did You Know?
The practice of using different temperature experiences for health, known as contrast therapy (moving between hot saunas and cold features like ice fountains), is believed to improve circulation and reduce muscle inflammation.
The spa facilities are intended to provide a complete wellness experience, allowing members to de-stress and recover after workouts or simply enjoy a quiet escape.
Racquet Sports and Family Areas
Staying true to its heritage, the David Lloyd Club in Shawford offers premier racquet sports facilities. The club includes several indoor and outdoor tennis courts, badminton courts, and squash courts. It also features newly popular padel courts, catering to the fast-growing sport.
For families, the club has dedicated spaces and programs. The 'DL Kids' area provides supervised activities for children, allowing parents to use the club's facilities. There is also a soft-play frame, an outdoor play area, and specific family swim times.
The club's design includes a spacious Clubroom, which functions as a café, bar, and restaurant. It offers a menu with healthy meal options and serves as a social space for members to work, relax, or meet with friends.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The opening of the Shawford club is a notable boost for the local economy. The creation of over 100 new jobs covers a wide range of roles, from fitness professionals and spa therapists to hospitality and administrative staff. The company prioritized local hiring during its recruitment drive.
The long-term economic benefits extend beyond direct employment. The club is expected to attract members from the wider Hampshire area, potentially increasing footfall for other local businesses. The construction phase also provided employment for local contractors and suppliers.
Local business leaders have expressed optimism about the club's opening. The investment is seen as a sign of Shawford's appeal for premium brands and its potential for further economic development.
Membership and Community Response
David Lloyd operates on a membership model, and interest in the new Shawford club has been high. The company reported a strong pre-opening membership sign-up rate, indicating significant local demand for its services. Various membership tiers are available, including options for individuals, couples, and families.
Early feedback from new members has been positive, with many praising the quality of the facilities and the range of activities available. The family-oriented features have been particularly well-received in the community.
The club plans to engage with the local community through events, taster days, and potential partnerships with local schools or sports organizations in the future. This approach aims to integrate the club into the fabric of Shawford and establish it as a central part of community life.