David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its new flagship health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15 million investment. The facility, which is the company's 104th club in the UK, is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and serve as a central hub for the growing local community.
The state-of-the-art club spans over 100,000 square feet and features extensive facilities for fitness, relaxation, and family activities. Its opening marks a significant development for the Shawfair area, a planned town on the outskirts of Edinburgh, providing residents with premium wellness amenities and contributing to the local economy.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd has invested £15 million in a new club located in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The new facility is projected to create around 80 full-time and part-time jobs.
- It features a wide range of amenities, including a 100-station gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club aims to be a community hub, offering dedicated spaces for families and remote workers.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The Shawfair David Lloyd Club represents one of the company's most significant recent investments. The development process, which faced minor delays, has culminated in a facility designed to cater to a wide demographic, from serious athletes to families seeking recreational activities.
Company officials have emphasized their commitment to integrating the club into the fabric of the Shawfair community. The new town is projected to grow substantially over the next decade, and the club is positioned as a key piece of social infrastructure.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym; we wanted to build a destination for the entire community. From the outset, the Shawfair project was about providing a premium experience that supports health, wellness, and social connection for all ages."
Inside the New Flagship Facility
The club boasts an impressive array of modern equipment and purpose-built spaces. Members have access to a variety of fitness and leisure options under one roof, designed to promote a holistic approach to health.
Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a 100-station gymnasium equipped with the latest technology from brands like Technogym and Life Fitness. This includes a diverse range of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a large free-weights area.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club features several specialized studios. These include a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio for classes like BLAZE, a serene mind-and-body studio for yoga and Pilates, and a dedicated group cycling studio.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £15 million
- Gym Stations: Over 100
- Swimming Pools: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
- Spa Facilities: 5 distinct relaxation experiences
Aquatic and Racquet Sports
Water-based fitness is a major focus, with three separate pools. A 25-meter indoor lane swimming pool caters to serious swimmers, while a shallower indoor family pool provides a safe space for children. During warmer months, members can use the 20-meter heated outdoor pool, complete with a sun terrace and lounge area.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club offers five championship-standard tennis courts—three indoor and two outdoor—as well as several Padel courts, catering to the rapidly growing sport. A team of professional coaches is available for private lessons and group sessions for all skill levels.
More Than Just a Gym: Spa and Social Spaces
A key feature of the new David Lloyd club is its extensive spa and relaxation area, branded as the 'Spa Retreat'. This adult-only section is designed to provide a sanctuary for members to unwind and de-stress.
The Spa Retreat includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds. These facilities are designed to offer therapeutic benefits, from improving circulation to reducing muscle tension.
The Growth of Shawfair
Shawfair is a new town being developed on the southeastern edge of Edinburgh. The masterplan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over a 20-year period. The opening of major amenities like the David Lloyd Club is a crucial step in establishing Shawfair as a self-sufficient and desirable community, attracting new residents and businesses to the area.
Beyond fitness, the club is designed to function as a social hub. A spacious 'Clubroom' offers a restaurant and café with indoor and outdoor seating, serving a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. This area is intended for members to socialize, relax, or work remotely.
For families, there is a dedicated kids' zone with structured activities and a soft play area, allowing parents to use the club's facilities while their children are supervised. The club also features an exclusive business lounge with workstations and complimentary Wi-Fi, appealing to the growing number of professionals who work from home.
Economic Impact and Community Response
The creation of approximately 80 new jobs is a significant boost for the local economy. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. The company has focused on hiring from the local Midlothian area where possible.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting its role in enhancing the amenities available to the growing population of Shawfair and surrounding areas. The club is seen as a key component in making the new town a vibrant place to live.
Initial membership sales have been strong, indicating high demand for premium health and wellness facilities in the region. The club's opening is expected to have a positive ripple effect, potentially attracting further commercial investment into the Shawfair development.