David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health and wellness facility in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £12 million investment. The new club, which is the company's 103rd location in the UK, has created 80 new jobs and is expected to serve thousands of members in the growing community.
The state-of-the-art facility spans 8,150 square meters and offers a comprehensive range of health, fitness, and leisure amenities. Its opening marks a significant addition to the Shawfair town development, a major residential and commercial project situated between Edinburgh and Dalkeith.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £12 million facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The project has generated 80 new jobs for the local community.
- The club features extensive fitness areas, swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- This opening is part of the broader Shawfair town development, which plans for 4,000 new homes.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club represents a substantial financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure. The £12 million investment underscores the company's strategy of expanding into new, rapidly growing residential areas. Shawfair was identified as an ideal location due to its ongoing development, which is projected to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over the next decade.
Construction of the club was a significant undertaking, providing employment and contracts to local businesses throughout the building phase. Now operational, the facility introduces 80 permanent positions across various roles, including fitness instruction, hospitality, management, and maintenance. This influx of jobs is a welcome boost to the Midlothian economy.
"We are thrilled to bring our world-class facilities to the Shawfair community," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs. "This £12 million investment reflects our confidence in the area's growth and our commitment to providing premium health and wellness services that cater to the entire family."
Inside the New Shawfair Facility
The Shawfair club is designed to offer a comprehensive experience for members of all ages and fitness levels. The facility is equipped with modern equipment and purpose-built spaces for a wide variety of activities.
What is Shawfair?
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most ambitious new town developments. Located southeast of Edinburgh, it is a master-planned community designed to provide thousands of new homes, along with new schools, public transport links (including a Borders Railway station), parks, and commercial centers. The inclusion of a major leisure facility like David Lloyd Clubs is a key part of making Shawfair a self-sufficient and attractive place to live.
Fitness and Training Areas
The heart of the club is its expansive gym, which covers a significant portion of the ground floor. It features the latest fitness technology and equipment, including a wide array of cardio machines, strength training stations, and a large free-weights area.
Dedicated zones for different workout styles are also included:
- Group Cycling Studio: An immersive studio with advanced bikes and a high-energy sound and lighting system.
- High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Zone: A space for popular classes like BLAZE, which combines cardio, strength, and combat training.
- Mind & Body Studio: A tranquil environment for yoga, Pilates, and other wellness-focused classes.
Swimming and Racquet Sports
A key attraction for families and serious athletes alike is the club's aquatic and racquet sport offerings. The facility includes both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, allowing for year-round use.
The 25-meter indoor pool is designed for lane swimming and lessons, while the 20-meter outdoor pool provides a resort-style experience for leisure and relaxation during warmer months. A separate indoor splash pool for children makes it a family-friendly destination.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £12 million
- Facility Size: 8,150 square meters
- New Jobs Created: 80
- Indoor Pool: 25 meters
- Outdoor Pool: 20 meters
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor, 3 outdoor
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the Shawfair club offers three indoor and three outdoor tennis courts. The club will also run a comprehensive coaching program for adults and children, managed by certified professionals.
Luxury Spa and Social Spaces
Beyond fitness, the new David Lloyd Club emphasizes relaxation and social connection. A significant portion of the investment was allocated to creating a luxurious spa retreat. The spa area, known as the Spa Garden, is designed to provide a tranquil escape for members.
Features of the Spa Garden include:
- An outdoor hydrotherapy pool
- A sauna and a steam room
- Heated relaxation beds
- A serene garden space for quiet reflection
The club also features a large 'Clubroom' area, which functions as a social hub. This space includes a restaurant and café, a business zone for remote working, and a soft-play area for children. This integrated approach aims to make the club a central part of members' daily lives, not just a place to exercise.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a milestone for the Shawfair development. It acts as an anchor amenity, making the new town a more attractive proposition for prospective homebuyers. The creation of 80 jobs provides direct economic benefits, while the facility itself is expected to draw visitors and members from across Midlothian and south Edinburgh.
According to local development authorities, high-quality leisure facilities are crucial for building a strong community identity. The club is expected to host community events and support local sports initiatives, further integrating itself into the fabric of Shawfair.
Nick Waugh, a director at Shawfair LLP, commented on the opening. "The arrival of David Lloyd Clubs is a landmark moment for Shawfair. It delivers a first-class leisure facility that will be a fantastic asset for residents and the wider community. This investment is a massive vote of confidence in our vision for Shawfair as a vibrant and sustainable place to live and work."
With its doors now open, the club is actively signing up new members. Its success will be a key indicator of the continuing growth and appeal of the Shawfair development project.