David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Scotland, following a £12 million investment. The new facility, located near the Edinburgh city bypass, is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and serve the growing local community.
The state-of-the-art club is the company's 104th location in the United Kingdom and part of a broader strategy to expand its premium family-focused leisure offerings. It features extensive facilities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, advanced gym equipment, and a dedicated kids' zone.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £12 million facility in Shawfair, Scotland.
- The project has created around 80 permanent jobs in the local area.
- The club includes a 100-station gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- This opening is part of the company's ongoing expansion in the UK leisure market.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The Shawfair David Lloyd Club represents a significant investment in the region's leisure infrastructure. The £12 million development was constructed to meet the needs of the expanding Shawfair community, a major housing development area situated between Edinburgh and Midlothian.
Company officials stated that the location was chosen strategically to provide a premium wellness destination for new and existing residents. The club aims to be a central hub for families, fitness enthusiasts, and those seeking a comprehensive wellness experience.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £12 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 80
- Gym Size: 100+ stations
- Swimming Pools: 25m indoor, 20m outdoor
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor, 3 outdoor
- Spa Facilities: Himalayan salt sauna, hydrotherapy pools, crystal steam room
The creation of 80 jobs offers a considerable boost to the local economy. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, club management, and maintenance, providing a range of employment opportunities.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Amenities
The new club offers a wide array of high-end facilities designed to cater to all ages and fitness levels. The centerpiece is a large, modern gym equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands.
Fitness and Training Zones
The gym floor is divided into specialized zones. These include areas for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members have access to a variety of equipment, from treadmills and cross-trainers to free weights and resistance machines.
In addition to the main gym, there are three dedicated group exercise studios. These studios will host a packed schedule of classes, including David Lloyd's signature programs like BLAZE, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout, alongside yoga, Pilates, and cycling classes.
"Our goal with the Shawfair club was to create a comprehensive wellness destination that feels like a second home for our members," said Stuart Caswell, the club's General Manager. "We've invested in the best equipment and designed spaces that support every aspect of health, from intense workouts to relaxation and recovery."
This approach aligns with a growing consumer trend where individuals seek holistic wellness solutions rather than just a place to exercise. The club's design reflects this, integrating fitness, relaxation, and social spaces seamlessly.
The Growing UK Wellness Market
The UK's health and wellness market has seen consistent growth over the past decade. According to industry reports, consumers are increasingly willing to invest in premium fitness experiences that offer more than just a gym membership. This includes access to spa facilities, quality dining, and family-friendly activities, a model that David Lloyd Clubs has successfully capitalized on.
Family-Friendly and Social Spaces
A key element of the David Lloyd brand is its focus on family. The Shawfair club includes extensive facilities for younger members, ensuring it appeals to a broad demographic.
The DL Kids area offers dedicated play spaces and a schedule of supervised activities for children. This allows parents to use the gym or attend classes while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities. The club also offers swimming and tennis coaching programs for all ages.
Beyond fitness, the club is designed to be a social destination. The Clubroom provides a comfortable space for members to work, relax, or socialize. It features an indoor and outdoor terrace and offers a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks.
This integration of social and fitness elements is crucial to the club's business model, encouraging longer visits and fostering a sense of community among members.
Luxury Spa and Recovery Zone
Reflecting the increasing importance of recovery in fitness routines, the Shawfair club boasts a luxurious spa area. The spa is designed as a tranquil retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Key features of the spa include:
- A Himalayan salt sauna
- A crystal steam room
- An ice cave for cryotherapy-style recovery
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Heated relaxation beds
These facilities provide members with advanced recovery options typically found in high-end destination spas. The inclusion of such amenities highlights the shift in the leisure industry towards offering a complete wellness journey, from high-intensity exercise to deep relaxation.
Did You Know?
David Lloyd Leisure was founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd. The first club opened in Heston, Middlesex, with a strong focus on racquet sports. Today, the company operates 133 clubs across the UK and Europe, making it one of the continent's leading health and leisure groups.
The opening of the Shawfair location is part of the company's ongoing expansion. According to company statements, David Lloyd Clubs continues to identify new areas for growth, particularly in communities with a strong demand for premium, family-oriented leisure facilities. The success of this new club will likely serve as a model for future developments.
