A new £15 million luxury health and wellness club has officially opened its doors in Shawford, creating approximately 100 new jobs for the local community. The David Lloyd Club, situated on a newly developed site just off the A34, represents a significant investment in the area's leisure and wellness infrastructure.
The facility spans over 100,000 square feet and offers a wide range of state-of-the-art amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a high-tech gym, and one of the region's largest spa retreats. The opening marks the culmination of a two-year construction project aimed at providing a premium family-friendly destination for fitness and relaxation.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawford following a £15 million investment.
- The project has created around 100 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- Key facilities include a large spa garden, indoor and outdoor pools, and Padel tennis courts.
- The club is designed to cater to families, with dedicated areas and activities for children.
A Comprehensive Look at the New Facilities
The new Shawford club is designed to be a comprehensive destination for health, fitness, and relaxation. Members have access to a wide variety of equipment and spaces tailored to different wellness goals.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Racquet Sports
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is the expansive gym floor, which is equipped with the latest cardio and strength-training machines. The space includes dedicated zones for functional training, free weights, and group cycling studios that host a schedule of immersive classes.
Racquet sports are a major focus, with several indoor and outdoor tennis courts available for members. In a nod to one of the fastest-growing sports, the club has also installed four Padel tennis courts, a hybrid of tennis and squash that is gaining popularity across the country. Professional coaching is available for all skill levels in both sports.
What is Padel?
Padel is a racquet sport typically played in doubles on an enclosed court about 25% smaller than a tennis court. Its popularity has surged due to its social nature and ease of learning, making it accessible for players of all ages and abilities.
Aquatic and Spa Amenities
The club features both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, and a heated 20-meter outdoor pool for year-round use. The outdoor area is surrounded by a patio with sun loungers, providing a resort-like atmosphere during warmer months.
A significant portion of the investment has been dedicated to the spa retreat. This area includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, and an outdoor spa garden with relaxation zones and a sauna cabin. A range of professional treatments is also available for booking.
Economic and Community Impact
The arrival of the David Lloyd Club is seen as a positive development for the local economy. The creation of 100 jobs provides a welcome boost to employment in Shawford and the surrounding villages.
Job Creation: The facility has generated approximately 100 new roles, including positions in fitness instruction, hospitality, spa therapy, and management.
Roles range from highly skilled positions like personal trainers and spa therapists to operational roles in the club's café, reception, and maintenance teams. The company has focused on hiring from the local talent pool where possible.
"Our goal was not just to build a club, but to become an integral part of the Shawford community," said Sarah Jenkins, the newly appointed General Manager. "We are proud to have created 100 stable jobs and to be investing in the long-term health and well-being of local residents."
The club is also expected to attract visitors from a wider radius, potentially increasing footfall for other local businesses. The development has transformed a previously unused plot of land into a vibrant hub of activity.
A Focus on Family and Social Life
While offering premium adult facilities, the club has placed a strong emphasis on being family-friendly. A dedicated 'DL Kids' area provides activities and coaching for children, allowing parents to use the gym or spa facilities.
The club also features several social spaces designed to encourage community interaction. These include:
- A large 'Clubroom' with an indoor and outdoor terrace for dining and socializing.
- A business hub with workstations and complimentary Wi-Fi for members who wish to work remotely.
- An adults-only lounge area for quiet relaxation.
The management team plans to host a regular calendar of social events, including family fun days, themed dining nights, and member mixers, to foster a strong sense of community within the club.
According to initial membership figures, the family-oriented approach has been well-received. The club reported strong pre-opening sales, with a significant number of family memberships being activated in the first week. The opening weekend saw hundreds of new members exploring the facilities for the first time, signaling a promising start for the new venture in Shawford.