David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawfair, Scotland, following a £15 million investment. The facility is the company's 103rd club in the UK and is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs in the local area.
The state-of-the-art club spans over 100,000 square feet and offers a wide range of fitness, wellness, and family-oriented amenities. This opening marks a significant expansion for the David Lloyd brand in Scotland, bringing its total number of clubs in the country to four.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure invested £15 million into the new Shawfair club, its 103rd in the UK.
- The facility is projected to create around 80 full-time and part-time jobs.
- The club features extensive amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis and Padel courts, and a luxury spa.
- This opening is part of a broader expansion strategy for David Lloyd, targeting growth in key regional hubs.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The new David Lloyd club in Shawfair represents a significant commitment to the growing community located on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The £15 million project was developed to meet the rising demand for premium health and leisure facilities in the region.
Construction of the extensive facility was completed over an 18-month period. The club is strategically positioned to serve residents of Shawfair and the surrounding Midlothian and East Lothian areas. According to the company, the development aligns with its goal of providing family-friendly wellness destinations.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The opening is a positive development for the local economy. David Lloyd has confirmed the creation of approximately 80 new positions, spanning roles from fitness coaching and hospitality to club management and maintenance. This influx of jobs provides a welcome boost to the local employment market.
Shawfair Club by the Numbers
- Investment: £15 million
- Total Area: 100,000 sq ft
- Jobs Created: ~80
- UK Club Number: 103
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
- Padel Courts: 3
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
Local officials have noted the importance of such investments in newly developed areas like Shawfair, which is one of Scotland's most significant new town projects. The club is seen as a key piece of social infrastructure that enhances the quality of life for residents.
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The Shawfair club boasts a comprehensive array of facilities designed to cater to a diverse membership base, from serious athletes to families seeking recreational activities. The design emphasizes space, light, and high-quality materials throughout.
Fitness and Racquet Sports
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a large, modern gym equipped with the latest technology from leading brands. This includes a wide selection of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a dedicated free weights area. The club also offers several studios for group exercise classes, including David Lloyd’s signature BLAZE, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the facility includes three indoor and two outdoor tennis courts. It also features three Padel courts, reflecting the fast-growing popularity of the sport across the UK. Certified coaches will be available for both tennis and Padel lessons for all skill levels.
"Our goal was to create a comprehensive wellness destination for the entire family. From our world-class gym to the luxury spa and dedicated kids' facilities, there is something for everyone here at Shawfair," said Sarah Campbell, the club's new General Manager.
Swimming and Spa Facilities
The club offers extensive aquatic facilities. Members have access to a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower indoor family pool. A heated 20-meter outdoor pool allows for year-round swimming and is surrounded by a sun terrace and loungers.
A significant portion of the investment was dedicated to the luxury Spa Retreat. This area is designed as a tranquil escape for adult members and includes:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An ice cave and feature showers
- Heated relaxation beds
- An outdoor spa garden
The spa facilities are intended to provide a premium wellness experience that rivals standalone destination spas, making it a key attraction for the new club.
Family-Focused Amenities and Social Spaces
David Lloyd has long positioned its brand as family-friendly, and the Shawfair club continues this tradition. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids area with a full schedule of supervised activities for children, allowing parents to use the gym or spa.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel, a sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, has seen explosive growth in the UK. It is played in doubles on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court. The inclusion of three Padel courts at the new Shawfair club highlights David Lloyd's strategy of catering to emerging fitness trends.
Beyond fitness, the club is designed to be a social hub. The Clubroom provides a large, comfortable space for members to work, relax, or socialize. It features an indoor and outdoor dining area with a menu offering a range of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks.
An adults-only business lounge provides a quiet space for remote working, complete with charging stations and high-speed Wi-Fi. This feature caters to the growing number of professionals who work flexibly.
Strategic Expansion in Scotland
The opening of the Shawfair club is a key part of David Lloyd Leisure’s strategic growth plan. The company has identified Scotland as a market with strong potential for further expansion. Shawfair is the fourth David Lloyd club in Scotland, joining existing locations in Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh.
Stephen Brown, Regional Director for David Lloyd Leisure, commented on the expansion.
"We are thrilled to bring our premier health and wellness offering to the Shawfair community. This £15 million investment underscores our confidence in the Scottish market and our commitment to providing best-in-class facilities that promote a healthy and active lifestyle."
The company continues to explore opportunities in other key locations across the UK and Europe. The success of its premium, multi-faceted club model has proven resilient, attracting members who seek more than just a gym but a complete lifestyle destination.
The official opening was marked by a small ceremony attended by local community leaders and the club's founding members. The club is now fully operational and accepting new membership applications.
