David Lloyd Clubs has announced a £15 million investment to build a new health, spa, and racquets club in Speke, Liverpool. The project is expected to create 75 new jobs and is scheduled to open in Autumn 2024, providing a significant boost to the local economy and leisure facilities in the south of the city.
The new facility will be located at the Estuary Business Park and will feature a wide range of premium amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a state-of-the-art gym, and an expansive luxury spa. This development marks the company's latest expansion in the North West, aiming to cater to the growing residential population in the area.
Key Takeaways
- Investment: A £15 million project by David Lloyd Clubs in Speke, Liverpool.
- Job Creation: The new club will generate approximately 75 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Location: The facility will be built on a prominent site at Estuary Business Park.
- Facilities: Features include multiple pools, a luxury spa garden, advanced gym equipment, and racquet courts.
- Opening Date: The club is scheduled to open its doors to members in Autumn 2024.
A Major Investment in South Liverpool's Leisure Scene
The decision by David Lloyd Clubs to invest £15 million in a new Speke facility underscores the growing commercial appeal of South Liverpool. The development will occupy a large plot within the Estuary Business Park, transforming a previously undeveloped site into a hub for health and wellness.
This move is part of the company's broader strategy to expand its presence across the UK. According to company statements, the Liverpool location was chosen due to its strong transport links and the significant residential and commercial growth in the surrounding Speke, Garston, and Halewood areas.
Background on Estuary Business Park
Estuary Business Park is a key commercial zone in South Liverpool, located near Liverpool John Lennon Airport. It has seen considerable development over the past two decades, attracting a mix of industrial, retail, and office-based businesses. The addition of a major leisure facility like David Lloyd signifies a diversification of the park's offerings.
Construction is set to begin in the coming months, with a target completion date for late summer 2024, allowing for an official opening in the autumn. The club aims to provide a premium family-friendly environment, a core part of the David Lloyd brand identity.
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The new club promises an extensive range of facilities designed to cater to all ages and fitness levels. The design plans reveal a modern, spacious building with a focus on natural light and high-quality materials.
Health and Fitness Amenities
The centrepiece of the fitness offering will be a 10,000 square foot gymnasium. It will be equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands like Technogym and will feature dedicated zones for different types of training.
- Cardio Zone: A wide array of treadmills, cross-trainers, and bikes.
- Strength and Conditioning: An extensive free weights area and resistance machines.
- Functional Fitness: A dedicated space for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and group workouts.
In addition to the gym, there will be several studios for group exercise classes, including Mind & Body studios for yoga and Pilates, a high-energy studio for classes like BLAZE, and a dedicated cycling studio.
Did You Know?
Padel tennis, a mix between tennis and squash, is one of the fastest-growing sports in Europe. The inclusion of Padel courts at the new Liverpool club reflects this growing trend and will be one of the few places in the region to offer dedicated facilities for the sport.
Racquet Sports and Swimming Pools
True to its heritage, the club will have a strong focus on racquet sports. The plans include several indoor and outdoor tennis courts, as well as badminton courts and the increasingly popular Padel tennis courts.
For swimmers, the facility will boast both a 25-metre indoor pool for lane swimming and a heated 20-metre outdoor pool. A separate indoor splash pool for children will also be available, making it a key attraction for families.
Luxury Spa and Family-Focused Areas
A significant portion of the investment is dedicated to creating a premium spa experience. The 'Spa Garden' is a signature feature of newer David Lloyd clubs, offering a tranquil outdoor space with hydrotherapy pools, saunas, and relaxation zones.
The indoor spa area will include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Saunas and steam rooms
- Heated relaxation beds
- A salt cave and other experience rooms
For families, the club will feature a dedicated DL Kids area offering activities and coaching for children. A crèche service will also be available for members. The clubroom, a large social space with an indoor and outdoor terrace, will serve food and drinks throughout the day, positioning the club as a social hub as well as a fitness facility.
"We are thrilled to be bringing a world-class health and wellness facility to Liverpool. This £15 million investment reflects our confidence in the city and our commitment to providing the best possible experience for our members."
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The development is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. The creation of 75 permanent jobs across various roles is a significant benefit for the area. Recruitment will cover positions in management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and administration.
Local leaders have welcomed the news. A spokesperson for Liverpool City Council commented on the project's potential to enhance the local area, stating that high-quality leisure facilities are crucial for attracting and retaining residents and businesses.
The construction phase will also support temporary jobs in the building trades, providing a further short-term economic boost. The investment represents one of the largest in the UK leisure sector this year and highlights a continued demand for premium health club experiences despite challenging economic conditions.
As the opening date approaches, David Lloyd Clubs will begin its membership drive, offering 'founder member' deals to those who sign up early. The new club is poised to become a landmark destination for fitness and relaxation in South Liverpool.