David Lloyd Clubs has announced a £12.5 million investment to build a new health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian. The project is expected to create approximately 80 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local area, with an anticipated opening in late 2025.
The new facility will be the company's third location in the Edinburgh region and its seventh in Scotland. It aims to provide a comprehensive range of amenities for families and individuals, including extensive fitness areas, spa facilities, swimming pools, and racquet courts.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs is investing £12.5 million in a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The project will generate around 80 new jobs for the local community.
- The facility will feature a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports facilities.
- Construction is scheduled to begin in the coming months, with the club expected to open in late 2025.
Strategic Expansion in Scotland
The development of the Shawfair club marks a significant expansion for David Lloyd Leisure in Scotland. This new location will join existing clubs in Newhaven and Corstorphine Park, strengthening the company's presence in the Edinburgh area. The investment underscores the company's confidence in the growing demand for premium health and wellness services in the region.
According to the company, the Shawfair site was chosen due to its strategic location within a rapidly developing community. The area is undergoing significant residential and commercial growth, making it an ideal market for a family-oriented leisure facility.
Stirling Warrington, the property director for David Lloyd Leisure, commented on the expansion. He noted that the new club aims to become a central hub for the Shawfair community, offering a wide array of activities for all ages.
"Shawfair is a perfect location for our latest club, and we are delighted to be part of the new town's development. Our clubs are renowned for being a home away from home for our members," Warrington stated.
Community and Economic Impact
The creation of 80 new jobs is a major component of the project's local impact. These roles will span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, club management, and maintenance. This employment boost is expected to provide valuable opportunities for residents in Shawfair and the wider Midlothian area.
The club is also designed to support local families by offering extensive children's facilities. These include dedicated kids' activity rooms, a soft play area, and structured programs such as the DL Kids programme, swimming lessons, and tennis coaching.
Project at a Glance
- Total Investment: £12.5 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 80
- Location: Shawfair, Midlothian, Scotland
- Key Features: Luxury spa, indoor/outdoor pools, 100+ weekly classes
- Projected Opening: Late 2025
A Comprehensive Range of Facilities
The new David Lloyd Club in Shawfair will offer a wide variety of amenities designed to cater to diverse fitness and wellness needs. The facility is planned to include a large, modern gymnasium equipped with the latest fitness technology and equipment.
Members will have access to multiple group exercise studios, which will host over 100 classes each week. These classes will range from high-intensity workouts like BLAZE to holistic practices such as yoga and Pilates. This variety is intended to ensure that members of all fitness levels can find suitable activities.
About David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health and wellness groups. It operates 133 clubs across nine countries, with 103 locations in the United Kingdom. The company focuses on providing premium, family-friendly environments with a broad range of fitness, racquets, and relaxation facilities.
Focus on Wellness and Relaxation
A key feature of the new club will be its luxurious spa area. This dedicated wellness space is designed to provide a tranquil environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa will include a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated beds.
Swimming facilities will be extensive, with both indoor and outdoor heated pools. This will allow for year-round swimming and leisure activities, regardless of the weather. The pools will be available for lane swimming, family fun, and aqua aerobics classes.
Racquet Sports and Family Amenities
In line with the brand's heritage, the Shawfair club will place a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The plans include both indoor and outdoor tennis courts, as well as courts for padel, a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Professional coaching will be available for players of all ages and skill levels.
The club will also feature a Clubroom, a dedicated social space for members to work, relax, and dine. This area will offer a full menu of food and beverages in a comfortable setting, reinforcing the club's role as a community hub.
Nick Brereton of Shawfair LLP, the developer of the new town, welcomed the addition of the David Lloyd Club. He highlighted its potential to enhance the quality of life for residents.
"We are delighted to welcome David Lloyd Clubs to Shawfair. This is a significant milestone for the new town, providing a fantastic leisure and wellness destination for the growing community," Brereton said.
With construction set to begin soon, the new facility is on track to become a cornerstone of the Shawfair community, promoting health, wellness, and social connection for years to come.