David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Scotland, following a £20 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's 103rd club in the UK, has created approximately 100 new jobs in the local community.
The state-of-the-art club is designed to cater to the entire family, offering a wide range of fitness and leisure amenities. This opening marks a significant expansion for the David Lloyd brand and represents a major new resource for residents in the rapidly growing Shawfair and Midlothian areas.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £20 million in a new club in Shawfair, Scotland.
- The new facility has created around 100 full-time and part-time jobs.
- It features a 10,000 sq ft gym, multiple pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquets courts.
- The club includes dedicated family zones, a business hub, and a Clubroom for socialising.
A New Hub for Community Wellness
The Shawfair David Lloyd Club is positioned as a premium destination for health and wellness. Construction on the site began over a year ago, transforming a large plot into a modern architectural landmark for the area. The club's opening is timed to meet growing demand for comprehensive wellness facilities that go beyond a traditional gym.
Company officials stated that the location was chosen due to Shawfair's significant residential growth and its strategic position between Edinburgh and the Midlothian countryside. The development aims to become a central part of the community, providing a space for fitness, relaxation, and social connection.
What is Shawfair?
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most ambitious new town developments, located southeast of Edinburgh. The masterplan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and community facilities over the next decade, making it a key growth area in the region.
The facility is expected to serve thousands of members from the surrounding towns and new housing developments. Its opening reflects a broader trend in the leisure industry towards creating multi-purpose destinations that integrate fitness, work, and family life under one roof.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The new club boasts an impressive array of amenities designed to cater to a diverse membership. The sheer scale and quality of the facilities are central to its appeal.
Fitness and Training Zones
The centerpiece is a 10,000 sq ft gym, which features the latest equipment from leading brands. This includes a dedicated weightlifting area, cardio machines with interactive displays, and functional training zones.
In addition to the main gym, the club offers several specialized studios:
- BLAZE Studio: A boutique-style HIIT class combining cardio, strength, and combat training.
- Rhythm Studio: A high-energy indoor cycling experience with advanced lighting and sound systems.
- Mind & Body Studio: A serene space for yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes.
Impressive Scale
The Shawfair club includes a 20-metre indoor pool, a 25-metre outdoor pool, and a dedicated indoor children's splash pool, providing year-round swimming options for all ages.
Spa and Relaxation Areas
A significant portion of the investment was dedicated to the luxury spa, known as the Spa Retreat. This area is designed as a tranquil escape for adult members.
Features include a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas, steam rooms, and heated relaxation beds. The outdoor spa garden contains a sauna and relaxation spaces, allowing members to unwind in a natural setting.
Family and Social Spaces
David Lloyd has placed a strong emphasis on family-friendly features. The DL Kids area offers activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years, including sports coaching, arts and crafts, and a soft-play area. This allows parents to use the gym or spa while their children are supervised.
"We are not just building a gym; we are creating a community destination where families can spend quality time together, individuals can focus on their well-being, and professionals can find a balance between work and life."
The Clubroom serves as the social heart of the facility. It features an indoor restaurant and bar, a dedicated adult-only area, and a large outdoor patio for dining. A business hub with workstations and free Wi-Fi is also integrated into this space, catering to the rise in flexible working.
Economic Impact and Local Reaction
The £20 million project is a significant economic boost for the Midlothian region. The creation of approximately 100 new jobs spans various roles, including fitness trainers, spa therapists, hospitality staff, and management positions.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting its role in enhancing the amenities available to the growing Shawfair community. The club is seen as a valuable addition that will attract new residents and support a healthy, active lifestyle.
During the construction phase, the project also supported numerous local contractors and suppliers. The company has expressed a commitment to continuing its community engagement through partnerships with local schools and sports groups.
David Lloyd's Strategy for Modern Leisure
The opening of the Shawfair club is part of David Lloyd Leisure's ongoing strategy to invest in and expand its portfolio of premium health clubs. The design and offerings reflect a deep understanding of evolving consumer demands.
There is a clear focus on providing an all-encompassing experience that justifies a premium membership. The integration of co-working spaces, high-end spas, and extensive family facilities demonstrates a move away from the traditional gym model towards a more holistic lifestyle club concept.
According to company leadership, the pandemic accelerated the public's focus on health and well-being, increasing demand for high-quality, safe, and spacious facilities. The Shawfair club, with its expansive indoor and outdoor areas, is designed to meet these new expectations and provide a comprehensive solution for modern family life.
