David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its new £20 million facility in Speke, a major development expected to create approximately 100 new jobs and provide a state-of-the-art health and wellness hub for South Liverpool. The expansive new club, located near the Estuary Business Park, began welcoming members this week following a multi-year construction and investment project.
The new centre represents one of the company's most significant investments in the North West, featuring a wide range of premium fitness, relaxation, and family-oriented facilities. Local officials have welcomed the opening as a significant boost to the local economy and a valuable addition to community amenities.
Key Takeaways
- A new £20 million David Lloyd Club has opened in Speke, South Liverpool.
- The development has created around 100 new full-time and part-time jobs.
- Facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive gym and racquet sports areas.
- The club is positioned as a family-friendly destination with dedicated zones for children's activities.
A Major Investment in South Liverpool's Economy
The arrival of the David Lloyd Club in Speke marks a significant private investment in the area. The £20 million project underscores the company's confidence in the region's economic vitality and the local demand for premium leisure services. Construction on the site, which spans several acres, was a complex undertaking that supported numerous local contractors and suppliers throughout its duration.
This development is strategically located to serve residents of South Liverpool, Halewood, and surrounding areas. Its proximity to major transport links and business parks makes it an accessible location for both local families and professionals working nearby. The investment is seen as a catalyst for further development and enhances the area's reputation as a desirable place to live and work.
Background on the Development
The planning for the Speke club began several years ago, with proposals approved by Liverpool City Council as part of a broader strategy to enhance leisure and wellness provisions in the city. The site was chosen for its accessibility and potential to serve a growing residential population in the south of the city.
Company officials have stated that the Speke location is one of their flagship models, incorporating the latest design concepts and technologies. The focus is on creating a comprehensive wellness environment that goes beyond a traditional gym, integrating social and relaxation spaces to build a strong community feel among its members.
State-of-the-Art Facilities Unveiled
The new club offers a comprehensive range of facilities designed to cater to all ages and fitness levels. The centrepiece of the development is its extensive aquatic area, which includes both a 25-metre indoor swimming pool and a heated 20-metre outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming.
For relaxation and recovery, the club features a luxurious spa area. Known as the 'Spa Retreat', it offers a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds. This element is designed to provide a premium wellness experience, often found only in exclusive destination spas.
Extensive Fitness and Racquet Sports Options
The fitness facilities are extensive. The main gym floor is equipped with the latest cardio and strength-training equipment from leading brands. Additionally, there are several dedicated fitness studios for a variety of classes, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, Pilates, and group cycling.
Facility Highlights
- Swimming: 25m indoor pool and 20m heated outdoor pool.
- Spa Retreat: Hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and ice fountain.
- Gym: Over 100 pieces of modern cardio and strength equipment.
- Racquet Sports: Indoor and outdoor tennis courts, plus Padel courts.
- Family: Dedicated DL Kids area, soft play, and family-friendly café.
Racquet sports are a core part of the David Lloyd offering. The Speke club includes several indoor and outdoor tennis courts with professional-grade surfaces. It also features Padel courts, catering to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport, which combines elements of tennis and squash. Professional coaching is available for all racquet sports for both adults and children.
Economic Boost and Job Creation
The creation of approximately 100 new jobs is one of the most significant benefits for the local community. These roles span a wide range of positions, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, tennis coaches, lifeguards, café staff, and management personnel. The company has focused on recruiting from the local area where possible.
"We are incredibly proud to open our doors in Speke and bring this fantastic facility to Liverpool. This club represents a major investment and a long-term commitment to the community. Our goal is to provide a premium destination for health, wellness, and relaxation, while also creating stable, quality jobs for local people."
– Sarah Harrison, General Manager for David Lloyd Speke (fictional)
The economic impact extends beyond direct employment. The operation of such a large facility will generate ongoing business for local suppliers, from food and beverage providers for the club's café to maintenance and service contractors. This ripple effect helps to support the wider local economy.
Furthermore, the presence of a high-quality leisure facility can make an area more attractive to potential homebuyers and businesses looking to relocate, potentially boosting property values and encouraging further investment in the long term.
Council Welcomes New Community Hub
Leaders at Liverpool City Council have expressed strong support for the new development, highlighting its role in promoting health and wellbeing among residents. The club provides a much-needed family-friendly space that encourages active lifestyles.
A council spokesperson noted that such facilities are vital for community health, offering a positive environment for people to exercise, socialise, and de-stress. The club's extensive children's programs, known as DL Kids, are particularly welcomed. These programs offer activities such as sports coaching, arts and crafts, and supervised play, providing valuable support for local families.
A Focus on Family and Community
Unlike many traditional gyms, David Lloyd places a strong emphasis on the family market. The club includes a large, open-plan 'Clubroom' with a café and restaurant, business lounge area, and an indoor soft play frame for younger children. This design encourages members to use the club as a social hub, not just a place to exercise.
The family-centric approach is a key part of the brand's strategy. By offering facilities and activities for all ages, the club aims to become an integral part of family life for its members. This model has proven successful in other locations and is expected to be popular in the family-dense suburbs of South Liverpool.
Membership and Opening Details
The David Lloyd Club in Speke is now open to members. The company has been running a pre-opening sales period, with significant interest reported from the local community. Various membership packages are available, including options for individuals, couples, and families, with different tiers offering varying levels of access to facilities like the spa.
Prospective members can book tours of the new facility to see the amenities firsthand. The club is operating under current public health guidelines to ensure a safe environment for all members and staff. The opening marks the completion of a project that brings a new level of leisure provision to this part of the city, promising significant benefits for years to come.