David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health and wellness facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire, following an £18 million investment. The state-of-the-art club, located adjacent to the Bicester Village retail park, is expected to create over 100 new jobs and provide a comprehensive range of fitness and leisure amenities to the local community.
The opening marks the 104th club in the UK for the premium health group and is part of a wider strategy of expansion into key regional hubs. The facility spans over 100,000 square feet and incorporates advanced wellness technology, family-friendly spaces, and extensive sports facilities designed to cater to a diverse membership base.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has opened a new £18 million facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The project has created more than 100 full-time and part-time jobs in the area.
- The club features extensive facilities including swimming pools, tennis courts, a state-of-the-art gym, and a luxury spa.
- This opening is part of David Lloyd's ongoing expansion strategy across the UK.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness and Employment
The new Bicester club represents a significant financial commitment to the region. The £18 million investment covers the construction, high-end equipment, and interior finishing of the entire complex. According to company officials, this development underscores their confidence in the local economy and the growing demand for premium wellness services.
The creation of over 100 new positions is a notable boost for local employment. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. The company has focused on recruiting from the local talent pool, providing extensive training to ensure high service standards.
Facility by the Numbers
- Investment: £18 million
- Jobs Created: 100+
- Total Area: 100,000 sq ft
- Indoor Tennis Courts: 5
- Outdoor Tennis Courts: 3
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
The club's general manager, Sarah Jenkins, spoke about the community impact.
"We are thrilled to bring David Lloyd Clubs to Bicester. This is more than just a gym; it's a community hub for families and individuals to focus on their health and well-being. Our investment has not only brought world-class facilities to the area but also created stable, long-term employment opportunities."
Comprehensive Facilities for Fitness and Relaxation
The Bicester club is designed to offer a holistic wellness experience, integrating fitness, relaxation, and social spaces. The facilities are segmented to cater to different needs, from serious athletes to families looking for recreational activities.
State-of-the-Art Gymnasium
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is the expansive gymnasium, which is equipped with the latest technology from leading brands. The gym floor is zoned into specific areas, including:
- Cardio Zone: Featuring treadmills, cross-trainers, and stationary bikes with interactive screens.
- Strength and Conditioning: A large area with free weights, resistance machines, and functional training rigs.
- Boutique Studios: Dedicated spaces for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes like BLAZE, spin classes (Cyclone), and mind-body sessions such as yoga and Pilates.
The club also offers personal training services and proprietary group fitness classes that are a signature of the David Lloyd brand. According to the company, the class schedule includes over 130 classes per week, ensuring variety and availability for all members.
The David Lloyd Clubs Brand
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Clubs has grown to become one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. With over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, the company serves more than 730,000 members. Its model focuses on providing premium, family-oriented facilities that combine fitness, racquet sports, and social elements.
Extensive Racquet Sports and Swimming Pools
True to its heritage, the Bicester location places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. It features five indoor and three outdoor tennis courts, all finished to championship standards. Additionally, there are courts for badminton and squash, supported by a coaching program for adults and children.
The aquatic facilities are another key attraction. A 25-meter indoor swimming pool is available for lane swimming and lessons, while a 20-meter heated outdoor pool provides a space for relaxation and family fun. A dedicated indoor splash pool for children makes the club particularly appealing to families.
Luxury Spa and Social Spaces Enhance Member Experience
Beyond physical fitness, the club is designed to be a destination for relaxation and socializing. The luxury spa area, known as the 'Spa Retreat,' is a significant feature of the new facility.
The spa is an adult-only sanctuary offering a range of hydrotherapy and heat experiences. These include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice fountain
- Heated relaxation beds
This focus on recovery and mental well-being aligns with growing consumer trends in the wellness industry. The integration of such comprehensive spa facilities is a key differentiator for the David Lloyd brand.
"Our goal is to provide a complete wellness journey," stated a David Lloyd spokesperson. "Members can push their limits in a BLAZE class and then fully recover in our Spa Retreat. It’s this integrated approach that sets us apart."
The club also features a large 'Clubroom' with an indoor and outdoor terrace. This area serves as a social hub, offering a full menu of food and drinks. A dedicated business lounge with complimentary Wi-Fi is also available for members who wish to work remotely.
Strategic Location and Future Outlook
The choice of Bicester as the location for the new club is strategic. Situated near the popular Bicester Village outlet shopping destination and with excellent transport links to Oxford and London, the area has a growing and affluent population. The new facility is poised to attract members from the town and surrounding villages.
The opening is part of a broader investment phase for David Lloyd Clubs, which has continued to expand its portfolio despite economic headwinds. The company has focused on identifying locations with strong demographic profiles that can support its premium membership model.
As the Bicester club begins operations, its success will be monitored closely as a potential blueprint for future developments in similar UK market towns. The combination of high-end fitness equipment, extensive family offerings, and luxury spa facilities is designed to create a strong and loyal membership base for years to come.
