David Lloyd Leisure Group has announced plans to build a new £12.5 million health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian. The project is expected to create approximately 70 new jobs and is scheduled to open to the public in the summer of 2025, marking a significant investment in the region's leisure infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs is investing £12.5 million to build a new health and wellness facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The new club is expected to generate around 70 full-time and part-time jobs in the local community.
- Spanning 6,500 square metres, the facility will include a luxury spa, swimming pools, a state-of-the-art gym, and racquet sports courts.
- Construction is set to begin in early 2024, with an official opening planned for summer 2025.
New Facility Details and Amenities
The new David Lloyd Club will be situated in Shawfair Business Park, a location chosen for its accessibility and proximity to the Shawfair railway station. The facility will occupy a significant 6,500 square metre footprint, designed to offer a comprehensive range of health, fitness, and relaxation services.
Central to the new club's offerings will be its extensive wellness and fitness areas. Plans include a state-of-the-art gymnasium equipped with the latest fitness technology and a variety of workout zones. Members will also have access to dedicated studios for group classes, including high-energy workouts and Mind & Body sessions like yoga and Pilates.
Wellness and Relaxation Features
A major highlight of the Shawfair location will be its Spa Retreat. This premium wellness space is designed for relaxation and recovery, featuring a hydro pool, multiple saunas with different heat levels, a steam room, and heated relaxation beds. The spa aims to provide a tranquil environment for members to unwind.
The club will also feature both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The 25-metre indoor pool will be available for lane swimming and lessons, while the outdoor pool will provide a space for leisure and relaxation during warmer months.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £12.5 million
- Size: 6,500 square metres
- Key Features: Spa Retreat, indoor & outdoor pools, state-of-the-art gym, padel courts
- Location: Shawfair Business Park, Midlothian
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The development represents a substantial economic investment in the Midlothian area. The creation of approximately 70 new jobs will provide a range of employment opportunities for the local community. These roles will span various departments, including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and facility maintenance.
Recruitment for these positions is expected to begin in early 2025. The company has stated it will offer comprehensive training and development programs for its new team members. The project will also support local businesses and contractors during the construction phase, which is scheduled to commence in early 2024.
"Our new Shawfair club represents our ongoing commitment to providing best-in-class health and wellness facilities across the UK. We are excited to become part of the Shawfair community and contribute to its growth by creating jobs and offering a premium destination for health and wellbeing."
Community and Family Focus
Beyond its fitness facilities, the club is designed to be a social and family-oriented destination. A central Clubroom will serve as a social hub, offering a space for members to work, relax, and dine with a menu of fresh, healthy food options.
For families, a dedicated DL Kids area will provide activities for children, allowing parents to utilize the club's facilities. The inclusion of family-friendly amenities is a core part of the David Lloyd Clubs model, aiming to cater to all members of the community.
Strategic Growth in a Developing Area
The choice of Shawfair for this new development is strategic. Shawfair is a newly planned town on the outskirts of Edinburgh, undergoing significant residential and commercial development. With plans for thousands of new homes, the area is poised for rapid population growth, creating a built-in market for leisure services.
About Shawfair
Shawfair is one of Southeast Scotland's most significant development projects. Located just south-east of Edinburgh, it is designed to be a self-sufficient town with 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces. Its direct rail link to central Edinburgh makes it an attractive location for commuters and families.
The new David Lloyd Club will be one of the anchor tenants of the Shawfair Business Park, aiming to serve residents of the new town as well as surrounding communities in Midlothian and south Edinburgh. The facility's location near major transport links is expected to make it easily accessible to a wide demographic.
The introduction of padel courts is another notable feature. Padel is a rapidly growing racquet sport, and its inclusion reflects the company's strategy of incorporating modern and popular fitness trends into its clubs. This will be complemented by traditional tennis courts, catering to a broad range of racquet sports enthusiasts.
Timeline and Future Outlook
With construction slated to begin in early 2024, the project is on a clear timeline for completion. The company anticipates a summer 2025 opening, though this is subject to the construction schedule proceeding as planned.
The Shawfair club is part of David Lloyd Leisure Group's broader expansion strategy. The group continues to identify and invest in locations with strong growth potential. According to company statements, the focus remains on creating premium, multi-purpose facilities that combine fitness, wellness, and social elements under one roof.
As the opening date approaches, more information regarding membership options and pre-opening offers is expected to be released. The development is set to become a key feature of the Shawfair landscape, providing modern leisure amenities to a growing population.