Mersey Tunnels Impact Feared from New David Lloyd Gym
The proposal for a new David Lloyd gym in the Wirral Waters area is currently under review. This potential development has raised concerns regarding its impact on the nearby Mersey Tunnels. The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority has formally objected to the project, citing possible drainage issues.
Project Overview
David Lloyd Leisure, Europe’s largest fitness company, submitted plans to Wirral Council in April 2025. The gym is slated for the former Bidston Dock location, situated along Wallasey Bridge Road. If the proposal is approved, the facility will span six acres and generate an estimated 100 new jobs.
Facilities and Features
- Three weather-protected tennis courts
- Heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- Indoor and outdoor spa
- Sports hall with two indoor courts
- A new gym
- Children’s play area
- Café
- Six canopy-covered padel courts
Padel, a racket sport of Mexican origin, has gained popularity recently, and the addition of dedicated courts underscores this trend.
Upcoming Planning Meeting
The planning application is scheduled for deliberation at the Wirral Council meeting on January 29. The council is expected to recommend approval, contingent on specific conditions.
Community Feedback
Local councillor Liz Grey supports the initiative, highlighting the importance of exercise and questioning potential discounts for residents. However, there are also dissenting voices.
- Wirral Wildlife Trust has called for more botanical surveys.
- The Liverpool City Region has raised concerns about potential drainage impacts on the Mersey Tunnels.
Conversely, several key organizations, including the local flood authority and the Environment Agency, have not raised objections to the project. The development will need to ensure that it offsets any nature loss by investing in other areas.
Historical Context
A report presented to the council indicated that Bidston Dock historically served as a drainage point for the Wallasey Tunnel, leading to potential flooding issues in the vicinity. Recent assessments have identified solutions to mitigate these flooding risks.
Positive Community Impact
City officials believe that the new gym will enhance the local health landscape. The council has indicated it will not pursue local discounts but remains open to initiatives that promote gym membership among residents.
The local authority is eager to progress the site’s development, asserting that it will not have adverse effects on Wirral Waters or Birkenhead town center. The aim is to revitalize an area that has lain vacant for years, providing high-quality leisure facilities.
Stuart Caswell, New Clubs Acquisition Director at David Lloyd Leisure, expressed enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing its potential to create job opportunities and enhance community well-being.
