David Lloyd Leisure Group has announced plans to open a new £15.5 million club in Shawfair, Midlothian, marking a significant investment in the region's leisure and wellness sector. The development is expected to create approximately 80 permanent jobs and provide state-of-the-art health and fitness facilities for the growing local community.
The new club, scheduled to open in the autumn of 2025, will be the company's 104th location in the United Kingdom and its seventh in Scotland. It aims to serve as a premium destination for families and individuals, integrating extensive fitness amenities with social and relaxation spaces.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs is investing £15.5 million in a new facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The project is projected to create around 80 new full-time and part-time jobs.
- The club will feature a 10,000 sq ft gym, multiple pools, a luxury spa, and family-oriented areas.
- This will be the company's seventh club in Scotland and its 134th globally.
Project Details and Economic Impact
The construction of the Shawfair facility represents a major capital investment by David Lloyd Leisure Group. The £15.5 million budget covers land acquisition, construction, and the outfitting of the premium club. This development is a key part of the broader Shawfair masterplan, a joint venture between Mactaggart & Mickel and Buccleuch Property, which aims to build a new town with 4,000 homes.
According to the company, the creation of 80 permanent jobs will provide a notable boost to the local economy. These roles will span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, club management, and maintenance. The hiring process is expected to begin in early 2025, with a focus on recruiting from the local community where possible.
The Growing Shawfair Community
Shawfair is one of Southeast Scotland's most significant urban expansion projects. Located just south of Edinburgh, the area is planned to become a self-sufficient town. The inclusion of high-quality amenities like the David Lloyd Club is a strategic component of making the new community attractive to potential residents and businesses.
The club is being built on a site adjacent to the Shawfair Park and Ride, offering convenient access for members from Midlothian and the wider Edinburgh area. The location was chosen due to the rapid residential growth and the identified demand for premium health and wellness services.
A Look Inside the New Facility
The Shawfair club is designed to be a comprehensive health, wellness, and social destination. Spanning a large footprint, the facility will offer a wide range of amenities designed to cater to all ages and fitness levels.
Core Fitness and Swimming Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering will be a 10,000 square foot gymnasium. This space will be equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands, including a variety of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and functional fitness zones. Members will have access to personal trainers and a range of digital fitness tracking tools.
Swimming facilities will be extensive, featuring:
- A 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons.
- A 20-meter outdoor swimming pool, heated for year-round use.
- An indoor splash pool specifically designed for children.
These aquatic facilities will support a full timetable of activities, from adult swimming lessons to family fun sessions and aqua-aerobics classes.
Facility Specifications at a Glance
- Total Investment: £15.5 million
- Gym Size: 10,000 sq ft
- Pools: 3 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor, indoor kids' splash pool)
- Studios: 4 (Mind & Body, High Energy, Group Cycling, BLAZE)
- Spa: Luxury spa with 5 experience rooms
- Jobs Created: Approximately 80
Wellness and Family-Oriented Services
Beyond traditional gym equipment, the Shawfair club will place a strong emphasis on holistic wellness and family life. A significant portion of the facility is dedicated to relaxation and social activities.
The Luxury Spa Retreat
A key attraction will be the club's luxury spa. It is designed as a tranquil retreat for members to relax and rejuvenate. The spa will include a hydrotherapy pool, a sauna, a steam room, and five distinct experience rooms offering different heat, light, and sound environments. This feature positions the club in the premium segment of the market, competing with dedicated spa destinations.
"Our goal is to create more than just a gym. The Shawfair club will be a community hub where families can spend quality time together, focusing on their health and wellbeing in a first-class environment."
The club will also feature a dedicated 'Clubroom' with an indoor and outdoor terrace. This area will serve as a social space for members to work, relax, or dine. The on-site restaurant will offer a menu focused on fresh, healthy ingredients, catering to post-workout meals and family dining.
Activities for Younger Members
David Lloyd Clubs has a strong reputation for its family-friendly approach. The Shawfair location will include a dedicated DL Kids area with a full schedule of supervised activities for children. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in age-appropriate games and creative sessions. Coaching programs for swimming and tennis are also a core part of the offering.
Strategic Expansion in Scotland
The Shawfair club is the latest step in David Lloyd's strategic expansion within Scotland. It joins existing clubs in Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh, strengthening the company's presence in the country. The decision to invest in Midlothian reflects the changing demographics of the region, with significant population growth projected over the next decade.
Michelle Chambers, a regional manager for David Lloyd, stated that the company sees strong potential in the Scottish market. "We have been looking for the right location for a new club in this area for some time," she noted. "Shawfair's development provides the perfect opportunity to bring our unique brand of health and wellness to a thriving new community."
As construction progresses, the company plans to launch a pre-opening sales period, offering founding memberships at a reduced rate. This strategy aims to build a strong member base ahead of the official opening in late 2025, ensuring the club is vibrant and active from day one.