David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Solihull, West Midlands, following a £15 million investment. The state-of-the-art club, which began welcoming members this week, is expected to create over 100 new jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy and community wellness.
The new multi-purpose site features a wide range of health, fitness, and leisure amenities for individuals and families. It includes advanced gym equipment, multiple swimming pools, racquet sports courts, and a luxury spa, positioning it as a premium destination in the region.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £15 million facility in Solihull, West Midlands.
- The project has created more than 100 full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- Key features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club also offers dedicated family areas, a restaurant, and a business co-working space.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The development of the Solihull club represents a significant financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure, one of Europe's leading health and fitness groups. The £15 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the region and its strategy of providing high-quality wellness facilities outside of major city centers.
Construction of the purpose-built facility took approximately 18 months to complete. The project focused on creating a modern, energy-efficient building designed to meet the diverse needs of the local community. According to company officials, the goal was to create a comprehensive wellness hub that goes beyond a traditional gym.
"Our vision for Solihull was to build more than just a fitness center; we wanted to create a community destination," said a regional director for David Lloyd Clubs. "This investment reflects our commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and providing families with a premium space to relax, work, and socialize."
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Amenities
The new club offers an extensive range of facilities designed to cater to various fitness levels and interests. The centerpiece is a large, open-plan gymnasium spread across two floors, equipped with the latest technology and fitness equipment.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Area: 120,000 square feet
- Gym Stations: Over 100 pieces of equipment
- Indoor Pool: 25-meter lane swimming pool
- Outdoor Pool: 20-meter heated pool and sun terrace
- Tennis Courts: 4 indoor and 4 outdoor courts
- Spa Retreat: 7 unique thermal spa experiences
Advanced Fitness and Training Zones
The gymnasium is divided into specialized zones. These include areas for cardio, free weights, functional training, and cable machines. The club also features several dedicated studios for group exercise classes, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, Pilates, and cycling. Members have access to a timetable of over 130 classes per week.
For personalized training, the club employs a team of certified personal trainers. Members can utilize advanced body composition analysis tools and receive tailored fitness plans to help them achieve their health goals.
Aquatic and Racquet Sports
A key attraction is the comprehensive aquatic facility. It includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower family pool. A heated 20-meter outdoor pool provides a year-round swimming experience, complemented by a spacious sun terrace for relaxation during warmer months.
Racquet sports enthusiasts can use the club's eight championship-standard tennis courts, split equally between indoor and outdoor surfaces. The club also offers professional coaching for all ages and abilities, from beginner courses to advanced performance training. Additionally, there are several badminton and squash courts available.
Focus on Family and Community
David Lloyd Solihull has been designed with families in mind. The club includes dedicated spaces and programs for children, aiming to create a welcoming environment for all members of the family.
The David Lloyd Clubs Model
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure operates over 130 clubs across the UK and Europe. The company's model focuses on providing a premium, family-oriented experience that combines fitness, relaxation, and social activities under one roof. This approach differs from budget gyms by offering a wider range of amenities and services.
Kids' Activities and Childcare
The club features a dedicated 'DL Kids' area offering a variety of activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years. These programs are designed to be both fun and developmental, with activities ranging from sports coaching to arts and crafts. A crèche service is also available, allowing parents to use the club's facilities while their children are supervised by qualified staff.
For older children, the club provides structured coaching in swimming and tennis, as well as holiday activity camps. This family-centric approach is a core part of the David Lloyd brand identity.
Social Spaces and Dining
Beyond fitness, the club is designed as a social hub. The 'Clubroom' serves as a central café, bar, and restaurant, offering a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. It provides a relaxed setting for members to socialize or work.
An adults-only lounge offers a quieter space, while a dedicated business hub with complimentary Wi-Fi and workstations caters to members who wish to work remotely. This integration of lifestyle amenities aims to make the club a regular part of members' daily routines.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The opening of the Solihull club is a positive development for the local economy. The creation of over 100 new jobs spans a range of roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, restaurant staff, and management positions. The company prioritized local hiring where possible.
The general manager of the new club expressed enthusiasm about the community's reception.
"We have been overwhelmed by the positive response from the Solihull community. Our team is excited to welcome our new members and provide them with an exceptional experience. This club is a fantastic asset for the area, promoting both physical and mental well-being."
The construction phase also provided employment for local contractors and suppliers, contributing further to the regional economy. The ongoing operation of the club is expected to have a sustained positive impact through local partnerships and supply chains.
Membership and Opening Details
The club is now open to the public, with various membership packages available. Options include individual, couple, and family memberships, with different tiers offering varying levels of access to facilities like the spa and specific racquet sports.
Prospective members can book tours to view the facilities and discuss membership options. The club is located with easy access from the M42, making it convenient for residents of Solihull and surrounding areas like Knowle, Dorridge, and Shirley. Ample on-site parking is provided for all members.