David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a significant £15.5 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's third location in Scotland, has created over 100 new jobs in the local area.
The club is designed to provide comprehensive health, fitness, and relaxation services for families and individuals. The opening marks a major expansion for David Lloyd Leisure in the region and introduces a wide range of state-of-the-art amenities to the growing Shawfair community.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian, Scotland.
- The project represents a £15.5 million investment into the local economy.
- Over 100 full-time and part-time jobs have been created by the new facility.
- The club features extensive facilities including a state-of-the-art gym, swimming pools, a luxury spa, and racquet courts.
- This is the third David Lloyd Club in Scotland, joining locations in Glasgow and Aberdeen.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club represents a substantial financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure. The £15.5 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the region's economic growth and the increasing demand for premium health and wellness facilities.
Construction of the site provided a boost to local contractors and suppliers. Now operational, the club is a significant local employer, offering a range of roles from fitness coaching and hospitality to facility management and administration. According to the company, the creation of more than 100 jobs contributes directly to the economic vitality of Midlothian.
Strategic Location and Growth
The choice of Shawfair for the new club was strategic. As one of Scotland's most significant new town developments, Shawfair is projected to grow substantially over the next decade. The community is planned to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces.
Placing the facility within this expanding residential area allows David Lloyd to serve a built-in market of families and professionals. The club is positioned as a central hub for community activity, health, and social engagement.
Facility by the Numbers
- Investment: £15.5 million
- Jobs Created: 100+
- Gym Area: 10,000 sq ft
- Indoor Pool: 25 metres
- Outdoor Pool: 20 metres
- Racquet Courts: 3 Padel, 3 Tennis, 2 Badminton
Inside the New Shawfair Facility
The new David Lloyd Club offers an extensive range of amenities designed to cater to diverse fitness and leisure preferences. The facility is structured to provide a premium experience for all members, from serious athletes to families seeking recreational activities.
Advanced Fitness and Gym Space
At the heart of the club is a 10,000 square foot gymnasium. This expansive area is equipped with the latest fitness technology, including a variety of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a dedicated free-weights section.
The club also features several specialized fitness zones. These include a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio branded as BLAZE, a group cycling studio, and a Mind & Body studio for activities like yoga, Pilates, and meditation. This variety ensures members can access different training styles and group classes.
"Our goal was to create a destination that offers something for everyone, regardless of their age or fitness level. The investment in Shawfair reflects our commitment to providing best-in-class facilities that promote health, wellness, and community connection." - Jack Phillips, General Manager
Aquatics and Spa Facilities
A key attraction of the new club is its extensive aquatic and spa area. The facility includes a 25-metre indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower family pool. An outdoor 20-metre heated pool allows for year-round swimming.
Adjacent to the pools is the luxury Spa Retreat. This area is designed for relaxation and recovery, featuring:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An outdoor spa garden with relaxation zones
- Heated relaxation beds
This spa component positions the club not just as a fitness center, but as a comprehensive wellness destination.
What is Padel Tennis?
The inclusion of three Padel courts is a notable feature. Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court and is known for being easy to learn and highly social, making it increasingly popular worldwide.
Family-Oriented Services and Amenities
A core part of the David Lloyd model is its focus on family. The Shawfair club incorporates numerous features designed specifically for children and parents. A dedicated DL Kids area provides space for play and structured activities, allowing parents to use the gym or spa facilities.
The club offers coaching programs for children in swimming and tennis, as well as after-school clubs and holiday camps. This integrated approach makes it a practical choice for families looking for a single venue to meet their fitness and recreational needs.
Social and Work Spaces
Beyond fitness, the club is designed as a social hub. The Clubroom provides a large café and restaurant area with indoor and outdoor seating. It serves a full menu throughout the day, offering a place for members to socialize, eat, or work.
An adults-only business area provides a quiet space with workstations and Wi-Fi, catering to the growing trend of remote and flexible working. This allows members to integrate their professional and personal lives within the same environment.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a significant milestone for the Shawfair development. It acts as an anchor amenity, making the area more attractive to prospective homebuyers and other businesses. The creation of over 100 jobs provides a direct economic benefit to the local population.
The facility is expected to draw members from across Midlothian and the wider Edinburgh area. This influx of visitors can have a positive knock-on effect for other local businesses and services.
As the third club in Scotland, the Shawfair opening cements David Lloyd Leisure's presence in the country. It joins established clubs in Glasgow's West End and Aberdeen, demonstrating a continued strategy of investment and expansion north of the border. The company continues to be a major player in the UK's premium health and leisure market.