The proposal for a new David Lloyd gym is poised to receive approval, sparking concerns about its potential impact on the Mersey Tunnels. This development, located in the Wirral Waters area, has drawn objections from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, highlighting the need for careful consideration of the project's implications.
David Lloyd Leisure, recognized as Europe’s largest health, fitness, and leisure company, submitted its plans to the Wirral Council back in April 2025. The proposed club aims to be part of the significant regeneration effort at Wirral Waters, which occupies the docks between Birkenhead and Wallasey. Should the proposal gain the necessary approvals, the gym would be situated on the former Bidston Dock site, conveniently accessible via Wallasey Bridge Road.
Developers Peel Waters project that this new facility will generate around 100 jobs upon completion. Spanning an impressive six acres, the gym will feature various amenities including three tennis courts protected from the weather, heated swimming pools both indoors and outdoors, a spa, a sports hall with two indoor courts, a fully equipped gym, a children's play area, and even a café.
Additionally, the plans incorporate six padel courts, tapping into the rising popularity of this racket sport, which has its roots in Mexico and has recently gained traction in the UK.
The plans are scheduled for discussion at an upcoming planning meeting on January 29, where local councillors will review the application and are likely to recommend its approval, albeit under certain conditions. Councillor Liz Grey from Bidston is a proponent of the project, emphasizing the importance of physical exercise. She also raised the question of whether there might be discounts available for residents in the area.
However, the proposal has not been without its critics. The Wirral Wildlife Trust is seeking more details regarding ecological surveys related to plants, insects, and reptiles. Meanwhile, the Liverpool City Region has raised concerns about possible drainage issues that could adversely affect the Mersey Tunnels.
On the other hand, several important organizations—including the local flood authority, the Environment Agency, Natural England, United Utilities, and the highways department—have expressed no opposition to the plans. Nevertheless, measures must be taken to mitigate any ecological damage on the site, which will involve investments in other areas.
According to a report presented to the committee, "Historically, Bidston Dock was the drainage point for water from the Wallasey Tunnel, and this situation persisted even after the dock was filled, leading to groundwater seepage and flooding on Wallasey Bridge Road." Although there were initial concerns about potential flooding at the site, a viable solution has now been identified.
Officials believe that this development will have beneficial outcomes, particularly by promoting health and wellness among future members. While the council clarified that it cannot enforce a local discount for residents, it is open to initiatives aimed at encouraging community engagement with the new gym.
The local authority has expressed a strong interest in advancing this project, assuring that it will not detrimentally affect the broader Wirral Waters region or the town center of Birkenhead.
The report concludes, "This development will introduce a series of structures offering high-quality leisure facilities on a previously vacant site, which has been idle for many years." When the plans were initially revealed, Stuart Caswell, the New Clubs Acquisition Director at David Lloyd Leisure, expressed excitement about their involvement in the Wirral Waters project, noting that it not only enhances the local area and creates jobs but also meets the needs of the community residents.
