David Lloyd Leisure Group has announced a significant £13 million investment to develop a new health, wellness, and fitness club in Shawfair, Midlothian. The project is expected to create approximately 100 new jobs in the area and will be the company's fourth club in Scotland.
The new facility will be constructed on a 7.5-acre site adjacent to the Shawfair Park and Ride. It aims to provide comprehensive services to the growing communities of Shawfair and Dalkeith, with construction scheduled to begin in the summer of 2024 and an opening planned for the summer of 2025.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure is investing £13 million in a new club at Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The project will create around 100 full-time and part-time jobs.
- The facility will occupy a 7.5-acre site and is set to open in summer 2025.
- This will be David Lloyd's fourth club in Scotland, joining locations in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Project Details and Economic Impact
The development represents a major investment in the Midlothian region, highlighting the area's growth and appeal. The creation of 100 new jobs will provide a significant boost to the local economy, offering roles across management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and maintenance.
The Shawfair site was selected for its strategic location and accessibility. Situated next to the Shawfair Park and Ride, the club will be easily reachable for residents from surrounding areas, including Dalkeith and southeast Edinburgh. The development is a key part of the broader Shawfair masterplan, which aims to create a well-serviced and sustainable community.
Construction is slated to commence in summer 2024. The build process will also support the local construction industry, providing temporary employment and contracts for local suppliers before the club's official opening in summer 2025.
About Shawfair Development
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant urban expansion projects. The masterplan includes the development of 4,000 new homes, schools, community facilities, and commercial spaces. The inclusion of a premium health club like David Lloyd aligns with the vision of creating a high-quality living environment for its residents.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Services
The new David Lloyd Club in Shawfair is designed to be a premium destination for health and wellness. The facility will span an impressive 99,000 square feet, incorporating a wide range of amenities for members of all ages.
Key features planned for the club include:
- A modern gymnasium with the latest fitness equipment.
- Dedicated studios for group exercise classes, including high-impact training, yoga, and Pilates.
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
- A luxurious spa area with a sauna, steam room, and hydro pool.
- Indoor and outdoor tennis courts, plus Padel tennis courts.
Focus on Family and Community
A central part of the David Lloyd model is its focus on family-friendly services. The Shawfair club will feature a dedicated DL Kids area, providing activities and coaching for younger members. This allows families to integrate health and fitness into their lifestyle together.
The club will also include a Clubroom, a social space with an indoor and outdoor terrace. This area is designed for members to work, relax, and socialize, fostering a sense of community. The integration of work-friendly spaces reflects the growing trend of flexible and remote working.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £13 million
- Site Area: 7.5 acres
- Building Size: 99,000 square feet
- Jobs Created: Approximately 100
- Opening Date: Summer 2025
Strategic Expansion in Scotland
The Shawfair location will be David Lloyd Leisure's fourth club in Scotland. It joins existing clubs in Glasgow West End, Glasgow Rouken Glen, and Edinburgh Corstorphine. This expansion signals the company's confidence in the Scottish market for premium health and wellness services.
According to Stuart Caswell, New Clubs Acquisitions Director at David Lloyd Leisure, the Shawfair location is an ideal fit for the brand's growth strategy.
"Shawfair is the perfect location for our fourth club in Scotland. With a growing community and excellent transport links, we are confident that the new club will be a welcome addition to the area, offering first-class health and wellness facilities for families and individuals alike."
The company's continued investment underscores a broader trend in the leisure industry, where consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality, comprehensive wellness experiences that go beyond a traditional gym.
Community and Developer Response
The announcement has been positively received by local stakeholders. Midlothian Council and the developers of the Shawfair project view the investment as a vote of confidence in the area's long-term vision.
Nick Waugh, a director at Shawfair LLP, commented on the development's significance. He noted that the arrival of a respected brand like David Lloyd enhances the appeal of Shawfair as a place to live and work. The new club is expected to act as a major community hub.
He stated, "The decision by David Lloyd Leisure to create this superb facility at Shawfair is a massive vote of confidence in the long-term vision for the new town. It will be a fantastic asset for the growing community, and we look forward to the club opening its doors in 2025."
As construction begins, local residents can anticipate the arrival of a facility designed to promote health, community, and well-being, contributing to the overall quality of life in the Midlothian region for years to come.