Colchester NHS doctor slams David Lloyd Clubs

Jose Morales, 35, and Toni Holden, 31, are both members at David Lloyd Clubs’ Colchester complex, in United Way, opposite the JobServe Community Stadium.

Recently, however, the couple have been left feeling dissatisfied with their experience and believe they are no longer getting value for money.

According to Jose, only three of the facility’s eight “luxury” tennis courts are in operation, so there is less than half the availability when they look to book a session.

During a recent visit, meanwhile, Toni was left disappointed after heading to the spa only to find both the indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis were out of action.

The pair also claim there is often no available parking, the kitchen closes at short notice and the changing rooms are left in what they describe as a “disgusting state”.

Furthermore, club facilities are also said to be frequently suspended so comedy evenings, entertainment performances and speed dating events can be held instead.

“Despite multiple complaints from myself and numerous members, nothing has happened and the tennis courts are still out of action,” added Mr Morales.

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“It is so frustrating and absolutely disgusting because we are still paying a premium membership for a service they are not providing.

“The indoor courts which are available are also absolutely freezing. Last week the temperature inside was colder than the outside.

“It is simply not acceptable and we complain we are just silenced, but we need to be heard and I don’t want this just brushed under the carpet.”

In a letter sent to Mr Morales, the club’s regional manager Andrew Ingham told him no compensation would be offered.

He put the lack of courts down to issues they are having with reinstating their damaged tennis bubble, the large dome which serves to shelter the playing surfaces.

Mr Ingham also said bosses “still believe our membership offers good value”, and suggested Mr Morales possibly use the tennis courts at David Lloyd’s Ipswich club.

Mr Morales added: “The customer service is non-existent. It is simply not acceptable.”

Bosses at David Lloyd Clubs have now responded to Mr Morales' concerns.

A spokesman said: "We welcome feedback from our members and are committed to providing the very best experience possible at our clubs.

"We’d like to thank members at David Lloyd Colchester for their patience whilst repairs are being made to our tennis courts bubble, which has been further delayed due to bad weather conditions.

"We are working hard to ensure the bubble-covered courts will be reopening as soon as possible.

"In the meantime, the indoor courts remain open for use and members are also welcome to use other local clubs’ tennis facilities.”