David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest premium health and wellness facility in Manchester, representing a significant £30 million investment in the region. The new club, located in the emerging Waterside district, is expected to create over 120 new jobs and provide state-of-the-art amenities for members.
The facility spans more than 150,000 square feet and features a wide range of fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented spaces. This opening marks a key part of the company's expansion strategy, focusing on high-growth urban areas within the UK.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has launched a new £30 million club in Manchester's Waterside area.
- The project has created more than 120 full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- The 150,000-square-foot facility includes advanced fitness equipment, multiple pools, a luxury spa, and family areas.
- The club also features modern amenities like Padel courts and a dedicated business hub for remote working.
A Major Investment in Regional Wellness
The launch of the Manchester Waterside club is one of David Lloyd Leisure's most substantial investments in recent years. The £30 million project underscores the company's confidence in the growing demand for premium health and wellness services outside of London. Company officials stated the location was chosen due to Manchester's dynamic economy and expanding residential population.
This development is set to have a notable impact on the local economy. The creation of 120 new jobs covers a range of roles, from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. Local suppliers were also utilized during the construction phase, providing a further boost to regional businesses.
Who is David Lloyd Leisure?
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. It operates 133 clubs, with 103 in the UK and others across mainland Europe. The company is known for its family-friendly approach and extensive facilities that go beyond a standard gym.
The club aims to be more than just a fitness center; it's positioned as a comprehensive lifestyle destination. According to the company, the design and offerings are tailored to meet the needs of modern families, young professionals, and active retirees.
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The Manchester Waterside club boasts an impressive array of amenities designed to cater to a diverse membership base. The facility is structured to provide distinct zones for different activities, ensuring a premium experience for all users.
Fitness and Sporting Amenities
The core of the club is its extensive fitness area. The main gym floor is equipped with the latest cardio and strength training machines from leading brands. In addition to the main gym, there are several specialized studios for group classes.
- Mind & Body Studio: A dedicated space for yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes.
- High-Intensity Studio: Designed for classes like BLAZE, a signature David Lloyd high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout.
- Group Cycling Studio: Featuring an immersive audio-visual experience for spin classes.
Racquet sports, a cornerstone of the David Lloyd brand, are well-represented. The facility includes multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts. It also features several Padel courts, catering to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport in the UK.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £30 million
- Total Area: 150,000 sq ft
- Swimming Pools: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
- Tennis Courts: 10
- Padel Courts: 4
- New Jobs Created: 120+
Focus on Relaxation and Family Life
A key differentiator for David Lloyd is its emphasis on wellness and family. The new Manchester club includes a luxurious spa area designed for relaxation and recovery. The "Spa Retreat" is an adults-only sanctuary featuring a hydrotherapy pool, saunas, steam rooms, and treatment rooms.
"Our goal was to create a true third space for our members – a place away from home and work where they can focus on their physical and mental wellbeing. The Spa Retreat is central to that vision, offering a world-class relaxation experience."
For families, the club offers extensive facilities for children. The "DL Kids" program provides structured activities and coaching for various age groups. There is also a dedicated kids' zone, an indoor soft play area, and a family-friendly swimming pool. This integrated approach allows parents to work out while their children are engaged in supervised activities.
Integrating Work and Wellness
Recognizing the shift towards flexible and remote working, the club has incorporated a dedicated business hub. The "Clubroom" provides a comfortable and professional environment for members to work, with high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a café. This feature allows members to seamlessly blend their work, fitness, and social lives in a single location.
The on-site restaurant and café, known as the Clubroom, serves a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. It is designed to be a social hub where members can relax, meet with friends, or work remotely.
Strategic Growth and Future Outlook
The opening of the Manchester Waterside club is part of a broader, long-term strategy for David Lloyd Leisure. The company continues to identify and invest in key locations across the UK and Europe. This expansion is driven by a growing public awareness of the importance of health and wellbeing.
Market analysis suggests that the demand for premium, multi-faceted health clubs is resilient. Consumers are increasingly willing to invest in experiences that offer a holistic approach to health, combining fitness, relaxation, and social elements.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is one of the fastest-growing sports globally. The inclusion of four Padel courts at the new Manchester club reflects David Lloyd's strategy of staying ahead of fitness trends and offering popular new activities to its members.
Company executives have indicated that further investments are planned for the coming years, with a focus on both opening new clubs and upgrading existing facilities. The success of the Manchester Waterside launch will likely serve as a blueprint for future projects in similar metropolitan areas.
As the wellness industry continues to evolve, David Lloyd's model of providing a comprehensive, family-oriented destination appears well-positioned for sustained growth. The new Manchester club stands as a testament to this strategy, offering a wide range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of its community.
