David Lloyd Clubs has announced a significant £25 million investment to develop a new state-of-the-art health and wellness facility in Manchester. The project, slated to open in the third quarter of 2025, is expected to create approximately 150 new full-time and part-time jobs, providing a considerable boost to the local economy.
The planned 150,000-square-foot club will be located in the MediaCityUK area, catering to the growing demand for premium leisure and family-oriented wellness services. This development marks one of the company's largest single investments in a new UK site in the last five years.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: David Lloyd Clubs is committing £25 million to a new facility in Manchester.
- Job Creation: The project is projected to generate around 150 new jobs in the local community.
- Prime Location: The new club will be situated in the MediaCityUK district, a hub for business and residential development.
- Modern Amenities: The facility will feature Padel tennis courts, extensive spa facilities, and dedicated family areas, reflecting current market trends.
Details of the New Manchester Club
The new David Lloyd Club is designed to be a comprehensive destination for health, fitness, and relaxation. Spanning over 150,000 square feet, the facility will incorporate a wide range of modern amenities tailored to individuals and families. The company has confirmed that the club will feature both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a large-scale gymnasium with cutting-edge equipment, and multiple studios for group fitness classes.
A key feature of the development is the inclusion of several Padel tennis courts. This addition responds to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport across the UK. According to industry reports, participation in Padel has increased by over 200% in the last two years, making it one of the fastest-growing racket sports.
Facility Highlights
- Total Area: 150,000 square feet
- Pools: Indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools
- Gym: Expansive fitness area with the latest technology
- Racket Sports: Multiple tennis courts and dedicated Padel courts
- Spa: A luxury spa retreat with sauna, steam rooms, and treatment areas
- Family Services: Dedicated kids' club and family-friendly activity zones
In addition to fitness facilities, the club will house an extensive spa area. This 'Spa Retreat' is designed to offer a premium wellness experience, complete with hydrotherapy pools, saunas, steam rooms, and dedicated spaces for relaxation and holistic treatments. This aligns with a broader industry shift towards integrated health services that combine physical fitness with mental well-being.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The £25 million investment represents a significant commitment to the Greater Manchester economy. The creation of 150 permanent jobs will span various roles, including fitness instructors, hospitality staff, management, and wellness professionals. The hiring process is expected to begin in early 2025, with a focus on recruiting from the local talent pool.
Beyond direct employment, the construction phase will support numerous jobs in the building and trade sectors. Local suppliers and contractors are expected to benefit from the large-scale project, creating a ripple effect throughout the regional economy.
"This investment from a leading national brand like David Lloyd Clubs is a tremendous vote of confidence in Manchester's economic vitality. The creation of 150 jobs and the development of a world-class facility in MediaCityUK will further enhance our city's appeal as a place to live, work, and invest."
The club is also anticipated to attract new members from across the region, potentially increasing foot traffic and spending at nearby businesses in the MediaCityUK and Salford Quays areas. This type of large-scale leisure development often serves as an anchor, drawing further investment and development to the surrounding community.
Strategic Focus on Premium Wellness
This new facility is part of David Lloyd Clubs' broader strategy to capitalize on the growing consumer demand for high-quality, family-focused wellness experiences. The post-pandemic era has seen a marked increase in public interest in health and well-being, with consumers willing to invest more in services that offer a holistic approach.
The Rise of the Wellness Economy
The global wellness market is valued at over $4.5 trillion, with consumers increasingly prioritizing experiences that support both physical and mental health. This trend includes a demand for high-end gym facilities, spa services, and sports like Padel that combine physical activity with social interaction. David Lloyd's investment reflects a strategic move to meet this evolving consumer preference.
The inclusion of amenities like a luxury spa, co-working spaces, and dedicated family zones demonstrates an understanding of modern lifestyle needs. Members are looking for more than just a gym; they seek a 'third space' away from home and work where they can exercise, relax, socialize, and even work remotely.
Russell Barnes, CEO of David Lloyd Clubs, stated, "We are thrilled to bring our latest and most advanced club to Manchester. This £25 million project underscores our commitment to providing best-in-class facilities for our members. We see a strong demand for premium, family-friendly wellness destinations, and our new MediaCityUK club is designed to be the ultimate environment for health and well-being."
The project's timeline aims for a grand opening in Q3 2025. Construction is scheduled to commence later this year, following the finalization of planning and development approvals. The company plans to launch a membership pre-sale in the months leading up to the opening.
