David Lloyd Leisure has announced a significant £11.5 million investment to develop a new health and wellness club in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The project, set to create approximately 100 new jobs, will transform the former Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa site into a premium family-focused facility.
The development marks a major expansion for the company and is part of a broader strategy to enhance its presence in key regional locations across the UK. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2025, with the club expected to open its doors to members in 2026.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure is investing £11.5 million to build a new club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The project is expected to create around 100 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- The new facility will be located at the site of the former Bicester Hotel Golf and Spa.
- Features will include a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, spa facilities, and extensive racquets courts.
- The investment is part of David Lloyd's ongoing strategy to expand its premium, family-oriented wellness offerings in the UK.
Details of the Bicester Development
The new David Lloyd club in Bicester is planned as a comprehensive health, wellness, and leisure destination. The company's investment will fund the construction of a modern facility designed to cater to individuals and families seeking premium amenities.
Central to the new club will be a 10,000-square-foot gymnasium equipped with the latest fitness technology. This will be complemented by several dedicated group exercise studios, offering a wide range of classes from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to yoga and Pilates.
Swimming facilities will be a key feature, with plans for both a 25-meter indoor pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool. This allows for year-round swimming and leisure activities. Families will also be catered for with dedicated indoor and outdoor splash pools for children.
Spa and Racquet Sports Facilities
A significant portion of the investment will go towards creating a luxurious spa area. The Spa Retreat will include a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and an outdoor spa garden, providing members with a dedicated space for relaxation and recovery.
Racquet sports, a traditional strength for David Lloyd, will be well-represented. The Bicester club will feature:
- Indoor and outdoor tennis courts
- Padel tennis courts, catering to the sport's growing popularity
- Badminton and squash courts
The development also includes a Clubroom with an indoor and outdoor terrace for dining and socialising, a business hub with workstations, and a dedicated kids' club area with a soft-play frame.
Project Timeline
Planning Approval: Secured in late 2024.
Construction Start: Projected for early 2025.
Expected Opening: Mid-2026.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The £11.5 million investment is expected to provide a substantial boost to the local economy in Bicester and the surrounding Cherwell district. The creation of approximately 100 new jobs is a key benefit, offering a range of roles from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff.
According to local officials, the project will also support the regional construction industry during the building phase. The development aligns with Cherwell District Council's goals of promoting health and wellbeing while encouraging new business investment in the area.
"This is a significant vote of confidence in Bicester as a place to invest, live, and work," a spokesperson for the local economic development partnership stated. "The creation of 100 jobs and the provision of high-quality leisure facilities will be a welcome addition to our community."
The new club is also expected to attract members from across the region, potentially increasing footfall and spending in other local businesses. This indirect economic benefit is a crucial aspect of large-scale leisure developments.
The UK Health and Fitness Market
The UK health and fitness club market has shown strong recovery and growth since 2020. According to recent industry reports, the market is valued at over £5 billion. Consumers are increasingly prioritising health and wellness, with a growing demand for premium, experience-led facilities that offer more than just a gym.
David Lloyd's Strategic Vision
This investment in Bicester is a clear indicator of David Lloyd Leisure's ongoing growth strategy. The company has focused on expanding its portfolio of premium, family-friendly clubs that offer a comprehensive range of services beyond a standard gym.
Stéphane Ratti, Chief Executive Officer of David Lloyd Clubs, commented on the company's direction. "We are dedicated to providing our members with exceptional facilities that support their health and wellness goals within a welcoming community environment. The Bicester project is a perfect example of this commitment."
The company's model focuses on several key areas:
- Family-Oriented Services: Offering facilities and programs for all ages, from children's coaching to adult fitness classes.
- Premium Experience: Investing in high-end equipment, luxurious spa areas, and comfortable social spaces.
- Diverse Activities: Combining traditional gym and swim with popular racquet sports like padel and wellness services.
- Community Hub: Creating a space where members can work, socialise, and relax, not just exercise.
This strategy allows David Lloyd to differentiate itself from both budget gym chains and smaller boutique studios by offering an all-encompassing leisure experience. The Bicester club will be the 104th club in the UK for the group, which also operates 30 clubs across mainland Europe.
Adapting to Modern Wellness Trends
The design of the new Bicester club reflects broader trends in the wellness industry. There is a growing emphasis on holistic health, which includes mental wellbeing and recovery alongside physical fitness. The inclusion of an extensive Spa Retreat and mind-body classes like yoga and Pilates directly addresses this demand.
Furthermore, the provision of a business hub acknowledges the rise of flexible and remote working. By offering members a place to work, David Lloyd positions its clubs as an integral part of their daily lifestyle, increasing member engagement and retention.
The investment in Bicester signals that David Lloyd Leisure remains confident in the long-term demand for premium, in-person health and wellness experiences, even as digital fitness options remain popular. The project represents a forward-looking approach to what a modern health club can offer its community.
