David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £30 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's 104th club in the UK, aims to provide a premium destination for health, fitness, and relaxation for families and individuals in the region.
The Shawfair club represents a significant expansion for the brand and is expected to create approximately 150 new jobs, boosting the local economy. It features a wide array of state-of-the-art amenities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive fitness areas.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian, with a total investment of £30 million.
- The facility is the company's 134th club globally and its 104th in the United Kingdom.
- The project has created around 150 permanent jobs in the local area.
- Key features include a luxury Spa Retreat, indoor and outdoor pools, advanced gym equipment, and extensive family facilities.
A New Benchmark for Wellness Facilities
The Shawfair club is designed to be one of the brand's flagship locations, offering a comprehensive range of health and wellness services. The facility spans a large, purpose-built site and integrates modern design with functional fitness spaces.
Extensive Fitness and Racquet Sports
At the core of the new club is its expansive gym, which is equipped with the latest technology from Technogym. Members have access to a variety of strength training, cardio, and functional fitness equipment. In addition to the main gym floor, the club features dedicated studios for specialized workouts.
These include a high-intensity BLAZE studio, a serene MIND & BODY studio for yoga and Pilates, and a high-energy group cycling studio. According to the company, the club will offer more than 100 group exercise classes each week, catering to all fitness levels.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the facility includes multiple tennis courts, as well as courts for squash and badminton. Coaching programs for both adults and children are available.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £30 million
- Gym Size: Over 10,000 square feet
- Swimming Pools: 25m indoor pool, 20m outdoor pool
- Group Classes: 100+ per week
- New Jobs: Approximately 150
Luxury Spa and Relaxation Zones
A central feature of the Shawfair location is its luxurious Spa Retreat. This area is designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, separate from the main fitness areas. The spa includes a hydrotherapy pool, multiple saunas, steam rooms, and an outdoor spa garden.
Members can also book a range of professional treatments. The inclusion of such a comprehensive spa facility aligns with David Lloyd's strategy to offer a holistic wellness experience that goes beyond traditional gym services.
Significant Investment in the Local Community
The £30 million investment in Shawfair marks a major commitment to the economic development of Midlothian. The creation of 150 jobs spans various roles, from fitness professionals and spa therapists to hospitality and operational staff.
"The opening of our Shawfair club is a milestone for David Lloyd Leisure. It not only expands our presence but also demonstrates our commitment to investing in communities and promoting healthy lifestyles," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd.
Local officials have welcomed the development, citing its positive impact on employment and its role in providing high-quality recreational facilities for the growing Shawfair community. The club is expected to attract members from across the region.
The Growing Shawfair Community
Shawfair is one of Southeast Scotland's most significant development areas. It is a newly planned town located just south of Edinburgh. The master plan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over the next two decades. The arrival of a major brand like David Lloyd is seen as a key step in establishing Shawfair as a desirable residential and commercial hub.
A Focus on Family-Friendly Services
David Lloyd has consistently positioned itself as a family-oriented brand, and the Shawfair club is no exception. The facility includes dedicated spaces and programs for younger members.
DL Kids and Family Activities
The DL Kids area offers a wide range of activities for children, including sports coaching, arts and crafts, and supervised play sessions. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in safe and structured activities.
The club also features a family swimming pool and a dedicated kids' menu in its Clubroom café and restaurant. The scheduling of activities is designed to accommodate family routines, with many programs running after school and on weekends.
This emphasis on family is a key part of the company's business model. According to industry reports, clubs that cater to the entire family often see higher member retention rates. By providing services for all age groups, David Lloyd aims to become an integral part of its members' lifestyles.
Strategic Growth and Future Outlook
The opening in Shawfair is part of a broader expansion strategy for David Lloyd Leisure. The company has been steadily growing its portfolio of clubs across the UK and Europe, focusing on premium locations with strong demographic profiles.
Despite challenges faced by the fitness industry in recent years, the demand for high-end, multi-purpose wellness clubs has remained strong. Consumers are increasingly seeking out facilities that offer a comprehensive experience, combining fitness, relaxation, and social spaces.
The company's continued investment in new sites and the refurbishment of existing ones suggests confidence in this model. The Shawfair club, with its modern design and extensive amenities, serves as a blueprint for future developments as David Lloyd continues to strengthen its market position.
