David Lloyd Clubs is set to open a new £12.5 million leisure facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire, creating approximately 80 new jobs in the region. The state-of-the-art club, located at the Catalyst Bicester business park, is scheduled to open in late summer 2024 and will offer a wide range of health, wellness, and family-oriented amenities.
The significant investment underscores the company's confidence in the growing demand for premium leisure and wellness services. The new facility aims to become a central hub for the local community, catering to both families and professionals with its extensive offerings.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs is investing £12.5 million in a new leisure facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The project will create an estimated 80 full-time and part-time employment positions.
- The 3,800-square-metre club will feature a luxury spa, multiple pools, tennis courts, and a state-of-the-art gym.
- The new location is slated to open to the public in late summer 2024.
A Major Investment in Regional Leisure Infrastructure
The development represents a substantial capital injection into Bicester's local economy. The £12.5 million project is not only bringing a new premium service to the area but is also a significant source of local employment. The creation of 80 jobs spans various roles, including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and facility maintenance.
Located within the Catalyst Bicester business park, the club is positioned to serve the town's growing population and the surrounding business community. Its placement reflects a strategic decision to integrate leisure facilities with commercial zones, providing convenient access for professionals working nearby.
Catalyst Bicester Development
Catalyst Bicester is a modern technology and manufacturing park. The inclusion of a David Lloyd Club is part of a broader strategy to create a mixed-use environment that combines work, wellness, and lifestyle amenities, making the park more attractive to businesses and their employees.
Extensive Facilities for Fitness and Relaxation
The new Bicester club is designed to offer a comprehensive wellness experience, covering fitness, relaxation, and family activities across its 3,800-square-metre footprint. The facility is structured to meet a wide range of member needs, from high-intensity training to tranquil spa treatments.
Core Fitness and Racquet Sports
The heart of the club is its modern gym, equipped with the latest fitness technology. Members will have access to a wide array of cardio and strength-training equipment. Additionally, the club will host a variety of group exercise classes in dedicated studios. These include:
- Mind & Body Studio: For yoga, Pilates, and other holistic wellness classes.
- High Energy Studio: For dynamic, fast-paced workout sessions.
- Cyclone Studio: A dedicated space for high-intensity group cycling classes.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club will provide several courts, including facilities for tennis, badminton, and squash. This continues David Lloyd's long-standing reputation as a premier destination for racquet sports in the UK.
Swimming and Spa Amenities
A key feature of the Bicester location is its extensive aquatic and spa facilities. The club will include both a 25-metre indoor swimming pool and a 20-metre heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming.
The Spa Garden
The club's luxury spa, known as the Spa Garden, is a central attraction. It is designed as a tranquil retreat and includes a hydro pool, sauna, and a steam room, offering members a space for recovery and relaxation.
These facilities are designed to provide a resort-like experience, moving beyond a traditional gym model to offer a complete wellness destination.
Catering to Families and Professionals
David Lloyd Clubs has designed the Bicester facility to be inclusive, with specific offerings tailored to different member demographics, including children and working professionals. This multi-faceted approach aims to establish the club as a community cornerstone.
For families, the club will feature dedicated DL Kids facilities, offering a range of activities and coaching for younger members. This allows parents to use the gym or spa while their children are engaged in supervised programs.
"Our new Bicester club is designed to be a place for families to create lasting memories and for individuals to prioritise their health," stated Jack Phillips, General Manager of the new David Lloyd Bicester. "We are excited to build a vibrant community here and offer a unique space for both fitness and relaxation."
The Clubroom will serve as a social hub, providing a space for members to eat, socialise, and work. It includes a dedicated business lounge area with Wi-Fi, which caters to the growing trend of remote and flexible working. An outdoor patio area will also be available for dining and socialising during warmer months.
Economic Impact and Community Integration
The arrival of the David Lloyd Club is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy. Beyond the initial construction investment and the 80 jobs created, the facility is likely to attract further visitor spending in the area and enhance the appeal of the Catalyst Bicester business park for prospective corporate tenants.
According to company statements, there has been strong local interest in memberships ahead of the late summer opening. This early demand suggests that the club is fulfilling a recognised need within the community for high-quality health and leisure services.
The club's opening is timed to coincide with the continued expansion of Bicester, a town that has seen significant residential and commercial growth in recent years. The new facility aligns with the town's development trajectory, providing essential lifestyle infrastructure to support its growing population.
