Health club operator David Lloyd Leisure (DLL) has reapplied for planning permission from Exeter City Council to develop a £12m tennis centre adjacent to Exeter Chiefs' rugby stadium at Sandy Park.

Original planning permission was granted in 2006, but DLL held off developing the project in order to consider the appropriate design and layout of the club. Following the merger of David Lloyd Leisure with Next Generation Clubs last year, the company re-drew the plans to ensure the Exeter site reflected the new combined approach.

The centre will contain indoor and outdoor tennis courts, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a fitness suite and a five-a-side area. There will also be a spa, a salon and conference facilities.

John Mullen, head of project management at David Lloyd Leisure, said: “We were keen to open a club in Exeter in order to bring David Lloyd’s offerings to the local community and this site was perfectly suited to our needs, and although, we didn’t choose the site based on it being adjacent to the Rugby Club, we do see it lending synergy to our development.

"We are now looking forward to providing Exeter with a full range of leisure facilities suitable for the whole family, particularly as the area is short of such offerings at present.”

If planning permission is granted, construction is expected to commence early 2009 with the view of opening in 2010.

DLL is also refurbishing and rebranding the former Next Generation gyms with Life Fitness equipment in Dartford, York, Bristol, Ipswich and Chorley. The company also plans to upgrade strength equipment at Next Generation's Edinburgh and Glasgow clubs.

The centres are being rebranded David Lloyd Leisure clubs after Next Generation – which is owned by London & Regional Properties – acquired the chain, and brand, last year for £925m.

Lifetime will be equipping 26 DLL health and fitness clubs by the end of the year.