David Lloyd Leisure has opened its newest health, spa, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £12.5 million investment. The new facility is expected to create approximately 80 full-time and part-time jobs, providing a significant economic boost to the local area.
The club, which is the company's third in the Edinburgh region and 103rd in the UK, offers a wide range of premium wellness and fitness amenities for families and individuals. This expansion reflects the company's strategy to grow its presence in key suburban locations across the United Kingdom.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure invested £12.5 million in a new club at Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The new facility will generate around 80 local jobs.
- This opening marks the 103rd David Lloyd club in the UK and the third in the Edinburgh area.
- The club includes a state-of-the-art gym, swimming pools, a luxury spa, and family-focused activity areas.
Details of the New Shawfair Facility
The new David Lloyd Shawfair club is designed to be a comprehensive destination for health, fitness, and relaxation. The facility spans a large, purpose-built site, incorporating modern design and high-end equipment to meet the expectations of its members.
Central to the club is a 100-station gym featuring the latest fitness technology. This includes a variety of cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, alongside dedicated functional fitness zones. Members have access to personal trainers and customized workout plans to support their fitness goals.
Aquatic and Spa Amenities
A major feature of the new club is its extensive aquatic offering. It includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, as well as a shallower, warmer family pool. A separate outdoor swimming pool is also available, providing a resort-style experience during warmer months.
The club's luxury spa, known as the Spa Retreat, is designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. It offers a range of hydrotherapy facilities, including:
- A hydro-pool
- Saunas and steam rooms
- A heated outdoor spa garden
- Relaxation beds
This spa area is exclusively for adult members, providing a quiet space to unwind.
Strategic Expansion in Scotland
The Shawfair location was chosen strategically to serve the growing residential communities in Midlothian and south-east Edinburgh. It joins the existing David Lloyd clubs at Newhaven Harbour and Corstorphine, strengthening the brand's footprint in the region. The expansion is part of a broader company strategy to invest in high-quality, family-oriented clubs outside of major city centers.
Group Fitness and Racquet Sports
Group exercise is a core component of the David Lloyd offering, and the Shawfair club includes several dedicated studios. These spaces host a packed schedule of classes, from high-energy sessions like BLAZE to holistic practices such as yoga and Pilates.
The club also features three Padel courts, catering to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport. Padel is a mix of tennis and squash and is known for being social and easy to learn. The inclusion of these courts reflects the company's commitment to offering modern and in-demand sporting activities.
"Our new Shawfair club is a fantastic addition to the local community, providing a superb destination for families to focus on their health and wellness. The level of investment and the quality of the facilities are a testament to our commitment to providing the best experience for our members."
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The £12.5 million investment represents a significant capital injection into the local economy. The construction phase involved numerous local contractors and suppliers, and the club's operation will provide sustained employment for the community.
The creation of approximately 80 new jobs covers a wide range of roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, food and beverage staff, and management positions. This provides valuable employment opportunities for residents in Shawfair and the surrounding Midlothian area.
David Lloyd Shawfair by the Numbers
- Investment: £12.5 million
- Jobs Created: ~80
- UK Club Number: 103
- Gym Stations: 100+
- Swimming Pools: 3 (indoor, family, outdoor)
- Padel Courts: 3
Family-Focused Features and Services
David Lloyd Clubs are well-known for their family-friendly environment, and the Shawfair location continues this tradition. The club includes a dedicated DL Kids area, offering a range of activities and coaching for children, including sports, arts and crafts, and structured play sessions.
A key part of the family experience is the Clubroom, a spacious restaurant and social area. It serves a menu of fresh, healthy meals and provides a comfortable space for members to work, socialize, or relax with their families. An outdoor patio area offers additional seating for dining during pleasant weather.
Membership and Community Integration
According to the company, pre-opening membership sales were strong, indicating high demand for a premium health and wellness facility in the area. The club aims to become a central hub for the Shawfair community, hosting social events and activities for its members throughout the year.
The opening of the club is aligned with the broader development of the Shawfair new town, which is planned to include thousands of new homes, schools, and commercial spaces. The David Lloyd facility is one of the first major leisure amenities to open in the new development, positioning it as a cornerstone of the community's infrastructure.
