A new £25 million wellness and leisure hub is set to open in Speke this autumn, creating approximately 150 new full-time and part-time jobs. The major development, named The Speke Wellness Hub, aims to provide state-of-the-art health and fitness facilities for South Liverpool and the wider city region.
Developed by Mersey Health & Leisure Ltd., the 100,000-square-foot facility is currently under construction on a site adjacent to the New Mersey Shopping Park, with a grand opening planned for October 2024. The project represents a significant private investment in the area's community infrastructure and local economy.
Key Takeaways
- A new £25 million leisure facility, The Speke Wellness Hub, is opening in Autumn 2024.
- The project will create around 150 new jobs in the Speke area.
- The 100,000 sq ft hub will include multiple pools, a modern gym, a spa, and family activity zones.
- The development is seen as a major boost to local health infrastructure and the South Liverpool economy.
A Major Investment in Community Health
The £25 million investment from Mersey Health & Leisure Ltd. marks one of the largest of its kind in Liverpool's leisure sector in recent years. The development is designed to address a growing demand for comprehensive health and wellness services that cater to individuals and families alike.
Construction began in early 2023 and has progressed on schedule. Project leaders state the facility will offer a premium experience that remains accessible to the local community, with a range of membership options and pay-as-you-go access for specific activities.
"Our goal with The Speke Wellness Hub is to create a welcoming space that promotes a healthier lifestyle for everyone in the community," said Sarah Jenkins, CEO of Mersey Health & Leisure Ltd. "This is more than just a gym; it's a comprehensive centre for wellbeing, and we are proud to be investing in Liverpool's future."
Developing South Liverpool
The Speke area has seen significant regeneration and investment over the past two decades. Once dominated by industrial sites, the district is now a major hub for retail, logistics, and business, including the New Mersey Shopping Park and the Estuary Business Park. The addition of a large-scale wellness facility complements the area's residential and commercial growth.
Inside The Speke Wellness Hub: What to Expect
The sprawling 100,000-square-foot complex is designed with distinct zones to cater to a wide variety of fitness and relaxation needs. The developers have confirmed that the hub will feature some of the most modern equipment and facilities in the region.
Visitors can expect a diverse range of amenities tailored for all ages and fitness levels. The focus is on providing a holistic approach to health, combining physical activity with mental wellbeing and relaxation.
Core Facilities and Amenities
The centre will be anchored by several key features. According to the development plans, these include:
- Multi-Pool Aquatic Centre: A 25-metre main swimming pool, a dedicated learner pool for children, and a warm hydrotherapy pool for relaxation and rehabilitation.
- State-of-the-Art Gymnasium: A large gym floor with over 200 stations of the latest cardio, strength, and functional training equipment.
- Luxury Spa and Thermal Suite: A dedicated wellness spa featuring a sauna, steam room, ice fountain, experience showers, and several treatment rooms for massages and therapies.
- Group Fitness Studios: Three large studios will host over 100 weekly classes, including yoga, pilates, HIIT, and spin.
- Indoor Climbing Wall: A dedicated climbing and bouldering area suitable for beginners and experienced climbers.
- Family Activity Zone: A soft play area for younger children and dedicated spaces for family-oriented fitness classes and activities.
- On-site Café: A health-focused café serving nutritious meals, snacks, and drinks.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The creation of 150 new jobs is a significant economic benefit for the local area. Recruitment for a range of positions is expected to begin in late summer, with a focus on hiring from the local community where possible.
Roles will vary widely, covering different skill sets and experience levels. Opportunities will be available in fitness instruction, spa therapy, lifeguarding, facility management, hospitality, and administration.
Employment Opportunities
The 150 available roles will include a mix of full-time, part-time, and flexible positions. Key roles to be recruited include personal trainers, swimming instructors, spa therapists, front-of-house staff, café workers, and maintenance crew.
Local councillors have welcomed the project, highlighting its dual benefit of improving public health amenities and stimulating local employment. The construction phase has already supported dozens of jobs in the building trade.
"This is a fantastic development for Speke and the whole of South Liverpool," commented local councillor David Smith. "Not only does it bring first-class leisure facilities to our doorstep, but the 150 jobs it will create are a welcome boost for our community. It's a real vote of confidence in the area."
A Focus on Community and Accessibility
While offering premium facilities, the operators insist that The Speke Wellness Hub will be rooted in the community. Plans are in place for partnerships with local schools, sports clubs, and healthcare providers to promote active lifestyles.
The management team has stated that accessibility will be a core principle. This includes physical accessibility throughout the building for users with mobility issues, as well as financial accessibility through tiered membership plans and community access schemes.
Introductory membership offers are expected to be announced closer to the October opening date. The hub will also host community open days to allow residents to tour the facilities before its official launch. This initiative aims to integrate the centre into the fabric of the local Speke community from day one.