David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its 103rd UK club in Bicester, Oxfordshire, marking a significant expansion for the health and wellness group. The new facility, located at the Bicester Shopping Park, represents a £12.5 million investment and is expected to create over 80 new jobs in the local area.
The club aims to provide a comprehensive range of health, fitness, and wellness amenities for individuals and families, featuring state-of-the-art equipment, swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports facilities. The opening is part of David Lloyd's broader strategy to enhance its presence across the UK and provide premium leisure services.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure opened its 103rd UK club in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The new facility is a £12.5 million investment, creating over 80 local jobs.
- Features include a 100-station gym, multiple swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports courts.
- The club offers a dedicated DL Kids area, a business hub, and a Clubroom for dining.
Investment and Local Economic Impact
The development of the David Lloyd Bicester club is a major financial commitment to the region. The £12.5 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the local market and its dedication to providing high-quality leisure infrastructure.
A primary benefit for the community is job creation. The club has generated more than 80 new positions, spanning roles from fitness instruction and hospitality to management and maintenance. This influx of jobs provides a welcome boost to the Bicester economy.
Stuart Caswell, the General Manager of the new club, highlighted the local focus. "We are thrilled to finally open our doors and welcome our first members to the new Club," he stated. He emphasized that the facility is designed to be a place where members can prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing.
"Our brand-new club is a fantastic addition to the local area, and we are excited to be part of the community, offering a premium destination for families to come together and prioritise their health and wellness."
Bicester's Growing Profile
The selection of Bicester for this major investment is strategic. The town is known for the Bicester Village luxury shopping outlet, which attracts significant visitor traffic. The addition of a premium health club at the adjacent Bicester Shopping Park complements the area's existing retail and leisure offerings, further establishing it as a key destination in Oxfordshire.
Comprehensive Facility Overview
The Bicester club is designed to cater to a wide range of fitness and leisure interests. It is structured to serve individuals, couples, and families with distinct zones and activities.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Gym
At the core of the facility is a 100-station gymnasium. This extensive space is equipped with the latest fitness technology, including a variety of cardiovascular and strength-training machines. The gym floor is designed to accommodate all fitness levels, from beginners to experienced athletes.
Beyond the main gym, the club features four dedicated group exercise studios. These spaces will host a diverse timetable of classes, including:
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Yoga and Pilates
- Group cycling in a dedicated spin studio
- David Lloyd's signature BLAZE and IGN1TE classes
Aquatic and Spa Facilities
The club's aquatic offerings are a major highlight. It includes both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. A separate indoor splash pool is available for children.
Spa Retreat and Wellness
For relaxation and recovery, the club features an expansive Spa Retreat. This area includes a hydro-pool, sauna, steam room, and heated beds, providing a tranquil environment for members to unwind after a workout or simply de-stress.
The integration of these wellness facilities reflects a growing industry trend that emphasizes holistic health, combining physical fitness with mental relaxation and recovery.
Racquet Sports and Family Services
Staying true to its heritage, the David Lloyd Bicester club offers extensive racquet sports facilities. Members have access to three indoor Padel courts, which is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK. Additionally, there are three tennis courts and two badminton courts.
Michelle Dand, Group Head of Fitness Products at David Lloyd Clubs, commented on the diverse offerings. "David Lloyd Bicester is our 103rd club and will offer the local community a host of premium fitness facilities for the whole family," she said. "We are excited to welcome members to experience our new signature class concepts BLAZE and IGN1TE plus our mind and body classes."
Dedicated Children's Activities
The club is explicitly designed to be family-friendly. A dedicated DL Kids area offers a range of activities and coaching for younger members. This allows parents to use the gym or attend classes while their children are engaged in supervised activities, making it easier for families to maintain a healthy lifestyle together.
Modern Amenities for Work and Socializing
Recognizing the changing needs of its members, the new club incorporates spaces for more than just exercise. A dedicated business hub provides a quiet area for remote working, complete with charging stations and Wi-Fi access.
The central Clubroom serves as the social heart of the facility. It offers a relaxed environment for members to dine, socialize, and relax. The menu is designed to provide both healthy options and more indulgent choices, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.
The Rise of 'Third Spaces'
Facilities like the new David Lloyd club are increasingly positioned as 'third spaces'—places outside of home and work where people can socialize, relax, and build community. By integrating fitness, wellness, dining, and remote work facilities, these clubs aim to become a central part of their members' daily lives.
The Bicester location aims to be more than just a gym; it is positioned as a comprehensive lifestyle destination. This model reflects a broader shift in the leisure industry towards creating multi-purpose venues that cater to the holistic needs of their clientele, from physical health to social connection and even professional productivity.
