David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a significant £15.5 million investment. The new state-of-the-art facility is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs in the local area, offering a wide range of premium amenities to members.
The Shawfair club marks the company's 104th location in the United Kingdom and is part of a broader expansion strategy. Situated within the growing Shawfair development, the club aims to serve as a community hub for families and individuals focused on health and well-being.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £15.5 million to open a new luxury club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The new facility will generate around 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- Amenities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a state-of-the-art gym, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is the 104th David Lloyd location in the UK and is positioned to serve the expanding Shawfair community.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The opening of the Shawfair club represents a substantial financial commitment to the Midlothian region. The £15.5 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the area's growth and the local demand for premium leisure facilities. This development is one of the largest private investments in the local leisure sector in recent years.
A significant benefit for the local economy is the creation of new jobs. The club is set to employ around 80 people in a variety of roles, including fitness instructors, spa therapists, hospitality staff, and management positions. This provides a welcome boost to local employment figures.
"We are thrilled to bring our world-class facilities to the Shawfair community," stated Michelle Chambers, General Manager of the new club. "Our goal is to provide a premium destination for families to focus on their physical and mental wellbeing. This investment reflects our commitment to creating exceptional experiences for our members and contributing positively to the local economy."
The club is strategically located to serve the new and expanding residential area of Shawfair. This planned community is expected to grow significantly over the next decade, making the facility a key piece of social infrastructure for new residents.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The new David Lloyd Club at Shawfair is designed to offer a comprehensive range of health and wellness services. The facilities are spread across a large, purpose-built site and cater to all age groups and fitness levels.
The centerpiece of the club is its extensive aquatic area. It features a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower indoor family pool. An outdoor heated pool allows for year-round swimming and relaxation.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £15.5 Million
- Gym Floor Space: 10,000 sq ft
- Swimming Pools: 3 (25m indoor, indoor family, outdoor heated)
- Tennis Courts: 4 championship-standard courts
- Spa Facilities: Scandinavian sauna, steam room, hydrotherapy pool
The fitness amenities are extensive. A 10,000-square-foot gym floor is equipped with the latest technology from leading brands. Members have access to a wide array of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a dedicated free weights area. Additionally, the club offers several specialized fitness studios.
Specialized Studios and Racquet Sports
The Shawfair location includes purpose-built studios for various types of exercise classes. These include:
- A High-Impact Studio for classes like Bodypump™ and circuit training.
- A Mind & Body Studio for yoga, Pilates, and meditation sessions.
- A Group Cycling Studio featuring advanced stationary bikes and immersive class experiences.
Racquet sports are a core part of the David Lloyd offering. The club boasts four championship-standard tennis courts, providing opportunities for coaching, social play, and competitive matches for both adults and children.
Focus on Family and Relaxation
Beyond traditional fitness, the Shawfair club places a strong emphasis on family activities and relaxation. The design incorporates spaces that cater to both children and adults seeking a tranquil escape.
The Growth of Shawfair
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most ambitious new town developments. Located southeast of Edinburgh, the project aims to deliver 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over the next 20 years. The inclusion of high-quality amenities like the David Lloyd Club is central to the strategy of creating a vibrant, self-sufficient community.
For families, the club offers a DL Kids facility with a dedicated activity program. This allows parents to use the gym or spa while their children participate in supervised, age-appropriate activities. A soft-play area and outdoor playground are also available.
The club's luxury spa, known as the Spa Retreat, is designed as an adult-only sanctuary. It features a range of hydrotherapy facilities, a Scandinavian sauna, a steam room, and relaxation zones. This provides a quiet space for members to de-stress and recover.
Clubroom and Social Hub
A key element of the David Lloyd model is the integration of social spaces. The Shawfair club includes a spacious Clubroom that functions as a café, bar, and restaurant. It offers a menu with healthy and family-friendly options, creating a central hub for members to socialize after a workout or relax with family.
The Clubroom also features a dedicated business area with complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing members to work remotely in a comfortable setting. This hybrid approach caters to modern lifestyles where work, family, and wellness often intersect.
According to the company, this social aspect is crucial for building a strong member community and encouraging long-term engagement. The design of the Shawfair club reflects this philosophy, with open-plan social areas and comfortable seating arrangements that encourage interaction.
