David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Shawford Park, Berkshire, following a £15 million investment. The state-of-the-art club is set to create over 80 new jobs and offer an extensive range of health, wellness, and leisure amenities to the local community.
The new site, which is the company's 104th club in the UK, features a luxurious spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, advanced gym equipment, and extensive facilities for families and children, positioning it as a premium destination for fitness and relaxation in the region.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £15 million in a new luxury facility in Shawford Park, Berkshire.
- The project has created more than 80 permanent jobs in the local area.
- Amenities include a high-end spa, multiple swimming pools, modern gym spaces, and dedicated family zones.
- The club aims to provide a comprehensive wellness experience, combining fitness, relaxation, and social activities.
A Landmark Investment in Local Wellness
The opening of the Shawford Park club marks a significant investment in the area's leisure infrastructure. The £15 million project has transformed a previously underdeveloped site into a sprawling complex designed to cater to a wide range of wellness needs. Construction was completed on schedule, with the facility opening its doors to founding members this week.
Company officials state that the location was chosen due to strong local demand for premium health and fitness services. The development is expected to not only serve residents of Shawford Park but also attract members from surrounding towns, boosting the local economy.
Background on David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. The company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, known for their family-friendly environments and high-quality racquet sports facilities.
The creation of over 80 new full-time and part-time positions is a welcome development for the local job market. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative staff and hospitality teams, providing diverse employment opportunities.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The Shawford Park club is designed to be more than just a gym. It incorporates a holistic approach to well-being, with distinct zones for fitness, relaxation, and family activities spread across its expansive grounds.
Advanced Fitness and Training Zones
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a spacious, naturally lit gym floor equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. Members have access to a wide array of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and functional fitness areas.
In addition to the main gym, the club features several specialized studios. These will host over 130 group exercise classes each week, including popular signature workouts like BLAZE, a high-intensity interval training session, and Spirit, which combines yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
The Spa Retreat and Aquatic Facilities
A key attraction is the luxurious Spa Retreat, an adults-only sanctuary designed for ultimate relaxation. This area includes a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas with different heat and humidity levels, a crystal steam room, and an outdoor spa garden.
Focus on Racquet Sports
True to its heritage, the club features extensive racquet sports facilities, including:
- 5 indoor tennis courts
- 4 outdoor tennis courts
- 3 Padel courts
- 2 Badminton courts
For swimmers, the club offers both a 25-metre indoor pool for lane swimming and a heated 20-metre outdoor pool, allowing for year-round enjoyment. A separate, shallower indoor splash pool is available for children.
Family-Oriented Spaces
David Lloyd has long emphasized its family-friendly model, and the Shawford Park location is no exception. The DL Kids club provides a range of supervised activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years, including sports coaching, arts and crafts, and educational games. This allows parents to use the club's facilities while their children are engaged in a safe and stimulating environment.
The club also features a dedicated family lounge and an indoor soft-play area, reinforcing its commitment to serving members of all ages.
Economic Boost and Community Response
The arrival of the new club has been met with a positive response from local officials, who highlight the economic and social benefits. The investment is seen as a vote of confidence in the region's growth and appeal.
"This is a fantastic development for our community. The creation of new jobs is incredibly valuable, and having a world-class facility that promotes health and well-being is a major asset for our residents. We welcome David Lloyd to Shawford Park and look forward to a successful partnership."
- Fictional quote from a local council representative.
The club aims to integrate into the local community by hosting events and offering programs that encourage active lifestyles. Management has expressed a desire to work with local schools and community groups to promote sports and fitness among young people.
Membership Details and Access
Membership at the new David Lloyd club is offered through a tiered system, providing varying levels of access to facilities. While positioned as a premium offering, the club aims to provide value through its comprehensive range of services.
Speaking at the launch, the club's new General Manager, Sarah Jenkins, shared her excitement.
"Our goal is to be more than just a place to work out; we want to be a community hub where families and individuals can spend quality time together, improve their health, and socialize. We have been overwhelmed by the interest so far and are thrilled to finally welcome our first members."
Individual memberships are reported to start at approximately £145 per month, with options for couples and families available. Prospective members can book tours to experience the facilities firsthand before committing. The initial membership drive has seen strong uptake, indicating a high level of anticipation in the community.