Gym chain David Lloyd refuses to lift its peak-time spa 'ban on men' because some women feel uncomfortable for 'religious reasons'

Members at David Lloyd Purley in Croydon pay up to £200 a month yet are barred from the spa every Thursday between 6pm and 8pm, with no fee reduction and no equivalent men-only slot offered in return. A voluntary survey found 75 per cent of the first 82 respondents want mixed access restored, but the branch confirmed by email this week that the policy will not change. Critics argue the chain is violating sex discrimination legislation, including provisions covering indirect discrimination through policies.

Sam, 50, a 15-year member, says staff told him men were excluded because 'some Muslim women don't feel comfortable.'

Couples paying up to £380 a month say the ban prevents them from using the spa together after work.

One formal complaint describes the Thursday blackout as a 'medieval policy' that drives a wedge between men and women in the membership.