David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £15 million health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, marking a significant investment in the rapidly growing community. The 99,000-square-foot facility, which officially opened its doors last week, is expected to create over 80 full-time and part-time jobs and provide extensive fitness and relaxation amenities to the region.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £15 million in a new club located in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility spans 99,000 square feet and has created more than 80 local jobs.
- Features include indoor and outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art gym, tennis and padel courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club aims to serve as a community hub for families and professionals in the expanding Shawfair development.
New Facility Details and Investment
The new David Lloyd Club represents one of the company's most significant recent investments in Scotland. Construction on the Shawfair site began over 18 months ago, culminating in a facility designed to meet modern wellness demands. The project's £15 million budget covers the advanced construction, high-end equipment, and extensive landscaping of the grounds.
Located near the Shawfair Park and Ride, the club is positioned to serve residents of the new housing developments as well as commuters from surrounding areas, including Dalkeith and southeast Edinburgh. The company stated that the location was chosen due to the area's projected population growth over the next decade.
Shawfair Club by the Numbers
- Investment: £15 million
- Total Area: 99,000 square feet
- Jobs Created: 80+
- Swimming Pools: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
- Padel Courts: 2 outdoor
A Focus on Modern Wellness Amenities
The Shawfair club offers a comprehensive range of facilities catering to both fitness enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. The centerpiece is a large, modern gym equipped with the latest technology from brands like Eleiko and Technogym. It also features dedicated zones for functional training, weightlifting, and cardio.
Beyond the gym, the club includes three swimming pools: a 25-meter indoor lap pool, a smaller indoor family pool, and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool that will be open year-round. This is complemented by an expansive spa area.
The Spa Retreat and Outdoor Offerings
A significant portion of the facility is dedicated to the Spa Retreat, a wellness area designed for adults. It includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice cave, and heated relaxation beds. An attached outdoor spa garden provides additional relaxation space with a sauna and lounge area.
"Our goal with the Shawfair club was to create more than just a gym. It's a destination for health, relaxation, and community," said Glenn Earlam, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure. "We've seen a growing demand for holistic wellness experiences, and the extensive spa facilities and family-friendly spaces here reflect that commitment."
The club also addresses the growing popularity of racket sports. It features five tennis courts with all-weather surfaces and two padel courts. Padel, a hybrid of tennis and squash, is one of the fastest-growing sports in Europe, and its inclusion is a key feature of the new site.
Impact on the Local Community
The opening is seen as a major milestone for the Shawfair development, a joint venture between Buccleuch Property and Mactaggart & Mickel. The development plans to build 4,000 homes over the next 20 years, along with schools, shops, and community facilities. The David Lloyd Club is one of the first major commercial enterprises to open in the area.
About the Shawfair Development
Shawfair is a large-scale, long-term project to create a new town on the southeastern edge of Edinburgh. The masterplan includes thousands of new homes, a new town center, three schools, and extensive green spaces. The arrival of major brands like David Lloyd is intended to establish Shawfair as a self-sufficient and desirable community.
The creation of over 80 jobs provides a welcome boost to the local economy. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff. According to the company, a significant number of these positions have been filled by residents from Midlothian and the surrounding areas.
Local officials have welcomed the investment. Midlothian Council Leader Kelly Parry commented on the opening, stating, "This is a fantastic addition to the amenities available to our residents. The investment from David Lloyd not only creates jobs but also provides a first-class facility that will promote health and well-being across the community for years to come."
Family and Business Features
A key aspect of the David Lloyd model is its focus on families. The Shawfair club includes a dedicated DL Kids area with a soft play frame, activity rooms, and a crèche. The club will run a schedule of supervised activities for children, allowing parents to use the gym or spa facilities.
For professionals, the club includes a business lounge area called the Clubroom. This space offers high-speed Wi-Fi, charging stations, and a quiet environment for remote working. This feature is designed to appeal to the growing number of people with flexible work arrangements.
The Clubroom also serves as the club's restaurant and bar, offering a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The space opens onto an outdoor patio overlooking the grounds, providing a social hub for members.
