David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £12.5 million investment. The new facility, the company's 104th in the UK, is expected to create approximately 80 jobs and offer a wide range of premium fitness and leisure amenities to the growing local community.
The state-of-the-art club is situated within the new Shawfair town development, south-east of Edinburgh. It features extensive facilities including a modern gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa, positioning it as a significant new destination for health and wellbeing in the region.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure invested £12.5 million in the new Shawfair club.
- The facility is the 104th David Lloyd Club in the United Kingdom.
- Approximately 80 new full-time and part-time jobs have been created.
- Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, a large gym, and a luxury spa.
- The club is part of the broader Shawfair town development project.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The opening of the Shawfair club represents a significant capital investment by David Lloyd Leisure, signaling confidence in the region's growth. The £12.5 million project was designed to meet the increasing demand for high-quality health and fitness facilities in Midlothian, an area undergoing substantial residential development.
According to the company, the club aims to be more than just a gym. It is designed as a family-friendly destination that promotes an active lifestyle for all ages. The development process involved close collaboration with local authorities to ensure the facility integrated well with the master plan for the new Shawfair town.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The creation of 80 new jobs provides a notable boost to the local economy. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, club management, and maintenance. This employment opportunity is a welcome addition to the Shawfair development, which aims to build a self-sustaining community with local services and amenities.
The club is expected to attract members from Shawfair, Dalkeith, and surrounding areas, contributing to the local economy through both direct employment and increased visitor traffic to the new town center.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £12.5 Million
- Gym Floor Space: 10,000 sq ft
- Swimming Pools: 25m indoor pool, 20m outdoor pool, and a children's splash pool.
- Racquet Sports: 3 indoor tennis courts, 4 badminton courts.
- Group Exercise Studios: 4 studios offering over 100 weekly classes.
Inside the New Shawfair Facility
The new David Lloyd Club boasts a comprehensive range of modern amenities designed to cater to a diverse membership base. The facility is structured to provide distinct zones for different activities, ensuring a premium experience for all users.
Advanced Fitness and Training Areas
At the core of the club is a spacious 10,000 square foot gymnasium. The gym is equipped with the latest fitness technology from leading brands, including a wide array of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a dedicated free weights area. A unique feature is the outdoor functional training space, known as the 'Battlebox', which offers a variety of high-intensity workout classes in an open-air setting.
The club also features four dedicated group exercise studios. These include a high-impact studio, a mind-and-body studio for yoga and Pilates, and a cycle studio for indoor spinning classes. The schedule is set to include more than 100 classes per week.
The Growing Shawfair Development
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most ambitious new town projects. Located just a few miles from Edinburgh, the development plans to deliver 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over the next two decades. The inclusion of a major leisure facility like the David Lloyd Club is a key part of the strategy to create a vibrant and complete community from the ground up.
Family and Leisure Amenities
A key focus for David Lloyd is providing facilities for the entire family. The Shawfair club includes extensive aquatic offerings, with a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a warmer, shallower pool for families.
During the summer months, members can use the 20-meter heated outdoor pool, which is surrounded by a sun terrace and an outdoor bar. For younger children, a dedicated indoor splash pool provides a safe and fun environment.
"We are delighted to bring our world-class facilities to Shawfair. Our goal is to provide a premium destination where families can spend quality time together, focusing on their health and wellbeing in a welcoming environment."
Racquet Sports and Spa Facilities
Staying true to its heritage, the club offers excellent racquet sports facilities. Members have access to three indoor tennis courts and four badminton courts, with a comprehensive coaching program available for both adults and children.
For relaxation and recovery, the club includes a luxury spa. The spa features a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, and an ice experience room. A range of professional treatments are also available. The club's social hub is the Clubroom, a spacious café and restaurant area with an outdoor patio, serving fresh meals and drinks throughout the day.
Community Response and Future Outlook
The initial response from the local community has been positive. The opening marks a milestone for the Shawfair development, providing a major amenity that was previously lacking in the immediate area. The club's focus on family activities aligns with the demographic of the new housing developments.
David Lloyd Leisure continues its expansion strategy across the UK, identifying growth areas where demand for premium health and wellness services is high. The Shawfair club serves as a model for integrating large-scale leisure facilities into new, master-planned communities.
With its comprehensive offerings, the club is well-positioned to become a central part of life in Shawfair, promoting community engagement and healthy living for years to come.
