David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest luxury health and wellness club in Bicester, Oxfordshire, following a multi-million-pound investment. The new facility, the company's 103rd in the UK, is expected to create over 100 new jobs and provide a wide range of premium fitness and leisure amenities to the local community.
The club's opening marks a significant expansion for the brand and introduces a state-of-the-art destination for health, family, and relaxation in the region. The development is situated at the new Catalyst Park, a prominent commercial hub in Bicester.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new luxury club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The project represents a multi-million-pound investment and is the 103rd UK club.
- The new facility will create more than 100 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a large gym, spa facilities, and family-friendly areas.
- The club is part of the larger Catalyst Park development, aiming to boost the local economy.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The construction and launch of the Bicester David Lloyd Club represent a significant capital investment in the Oxfordshire region. While the exact figure has not been publicly detailed, projects of this scale typically cost upwards of £15 million, reflecting the high standard of facilities and technology involved.
This development is a key part of the broader Catalyst Park project, a 25-acre commercial zone designed to attract business and create employment opportunities. The club is positioned as an anchor tenant, expected to drive footfall and enhance the appeal of the entire park.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting its positive impact on the community. The creation of over 100 jobs, spanning roles from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff, provides a notable boost to local employment.
What is David Lloyd Leisure?
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. It operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. The brand is known for its family-oriented approach, combining premium gym facilities with extensive racquets courts, swimming pools, and social spaces.
Extensive Facilities for Fitness and Relaxation
The Bicester club is designed to cater to a wide range of wellness needs, from intense physical training to restorative relaxation. The facilities are spread across a large, purpose-built space and include both indoor and outdoor areas.
Core Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a 10,000-square-foot gymnasium. This area is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands, including a wide array of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a large free-weights section. Members also have access to dedicated zones for specialized workouts.
- Group Cycling Studio: An immersive studio featuring advanced bikes and a high-energy sound and light system.
- High-Intensity Studio (HIIT): A purpose-built space for popular classes like BLAZE, which combines cardio, strength, and combat training.
- Mind & Body Studio: A tranquil environment for yoga, Pilates, and other holistic wellness classes.
Personal training services are available, with a team of qualified coaches offering customized fitness programs and guidance.
Aquatic and Spa Amenities
A key attraction of the new club is its extensive aquatic and spa facilities, designed for both exercise and relaxation. The club features both heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools, allowing for year-round swimming.
The outdoor pool area is complemented by a sun terrace and an outdoor spa garden, providing a resort-like experience for members during warmer months.
The indoor spa, known as the Spa Retreat, is a significant component of the luxury offering. This adult-only sanctuary includes:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- A salt cave for halotherapy
- Heated relaxation beds
- An outdoor spa garden with a sauna and relaxation zones
These facilities are designed to provide a comprehensive wellness journey, focusing on recovery and mental well-being alongside physical fitness.
Family-Friendly and Social Spaces
Consistent with the David Lloyd brand, the Bicester club places a strong emphasis on family. The facility includes dedicated areas and programs for children, making it an attractive destination for parents.
The DL Kids program offers a range of activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years, including sports coaching, arts and crafts, and supervised play sessions. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities.
Beyond fitness, the club is designed as a social hub. The Clubroom provides a large, comfortable space for members to work, socialize, or relax. It features an indoor and outdoor patio area and serves a full menu of food and drinks throughout the day.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym. We wanted to build a community destination where families and individuals can spend quality time together, focusing on their health and well-being in a premium environment," a company spokesperson stated during the launch event.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is expected to have a lasting positive effect on the Bicester economy. The direct creation of over 100 jobs is the most immediate benefit, but the club is also likely to stimulate indirect economic activity.
By attracting members from Bicester and surrounding towns, the club will increase visitor numbers to Catalyst Park, potentially benefiting other businesses in the area. The presence of such a high-quality leisure facility can also make the region more attractive for new residents and businesses considering relocation.
The club's management has expressed a commitment to engaging with the local community through events, partnerships, and outreach programs. This approach aims to integrate the club into the fabric of Bicester life, ensuring it becomes a valued local asset.
The Future of the Leisure Industry
The significant investment in the Bicester club reflects confidence in the premium health and wellness market. After a period of disruption for the fitness industry, there is a growing demand for high-quality, multi-purpose facilities that offer more than just a gym floor.
The trend is moving towards holistic wellness experiences that combine fitness, relaxation, and social connection. The comprehensive offering at the new David Lloyd Club, from its high-tech gym to its luxury spa and family areas, is a clear example of this evolving model. As people continue to prioritize their health, destinations like this are positioned for strong and sustained growth.
