David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Scotland, following a £15.5 million investment. The facility, located just south of Edinburgh, is the company's 104th club in the United Kingdom and its fifth in Scotland, aiming to provide comprehensive family-friendly fitness and leisure services to the growing local community.
The new club, which began construction in early 2023, features a wide range of state-of-the-art amenities, including a 100-station gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis and padel courts, and a luxury spa. The development has created approximately 80 new jobs in the area and is positioned as a central hub for the Shawfair masterplan development.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £15.5 million club in Shawfair, near Edinburgh.
- The facility is the company's 104th in the UK and has created around 80 local jobs.
- Features include a modern gym, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and padel courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is designed to serve the expanding Shawfair community and surrounding areas.
A Strategic Investment in a Growing Community
The decision to build a new club at Shawfair is part of David Lloyd Leisure's broader strategy to expand its presence in key suburban growth areas. The Shawfair masterplan is one of Scotland's most significant urban expansion projects, with plans for 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces. By establishing a presence early, David Lloyd aims to become an integral part of the new town's social and recreational infrastructure.
According to company representatives, the location was chosen for its strong demographic profile and projected population growth. The club is situated adjacent to the Shawfair railway station, providing convenient access for residents from Dalkeith, Midlothian, and south-east Edinburgh. This accessibility is crucial to attracting a wide membership base beyond the immediate Shawfair development.
What is the Shawfair Development?
Shawfair is a large-scale, planned community located between Edinburgh and Dalkeith. The project, which has been in development for several years, aims to create a new self-sufficient town with extensive green spaces, community facilities, and excellent transport links to the capital. The inclusion of a premium facility like a David Lloyd Club is seen as a key milestone in establishing the area's quality of life.
The £15.5 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the Scottish market and the long-term viability of the Shawfair project. This new facility joins existing David Lloyd clubs in Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh, strengthening its portfolio in the region.
Extensive Facilities for Fitness and Wellness
The Shawfair club boasts a comprehensive array of facilities designed to cater to a diverse range of members, from serious athletes to families seeking recreational activities. The centerpiece of the fitness offering is the 100-station gymnasium, which is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands.
Gym and Studio Spaces
The gym floor is divided into specialised zones, including areas for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members have access to a variety of equipment, such as treadmills, cross-trainers, free weights, and resistance machines. In addition to the main gym, the club features three dedicated group exercise studios.
These studios will host a packed schedule of classes, including David Lloyd's signature programmes. Offerings include:
- BLAZE: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout combining cardio, strength, and combat elements.
- Cyclone: An immersive group cycling class with state-of-the-art bikes and a dynamic lighting and sound system.
- Rhythm: A choreographed cycling class focused on music and movement.
- Mind and Body: A range of classes including yoga, Pilates, and meditation held in a dedicated holistic studio.
These classes are designed to appeal to all fitness levels and are a core part of the David Lloyd membership experience. The club expects to run over 100 classes per week.
Padel Tennis Growth
The inclusion of three indoor padel courts reflects the sport's surging popularity. Padel, a mix between tennis and squash, is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK. According to data from the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), the number of padel courts in Britain has nearly tripled since 2021.
Swimming and Racquet Sports
The aquatics facilities are a major draw for families and individual swimmers. The club features a 25-metre indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower, warmer indoor family pool. During warmer months, members can use the 20-metre outdoor heated pool, complete with a sun terrace and loungers.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the Shawfair club offers three indoor tennis courts and three indoor padel courts. This allows for year-round play regardless of the Scottish weather. A team of professional coaches will be available for private lessons and group sessions for both adults and children.
Luxury Spa and Family-Oriented Spaces
Beyond fitness, the new club places a strong emphasis on wellness and relaxation. The luxurious Spa Retreat is designed as an adults-only sanctuary, providing a space for members to unwind and rejuvenate.
"We are creating more than just a gym; this is a destination for wellness, relaxation, and community," said Michelle Chambers-Cran, the General Manager for the new Shawfair club. "Our Spa Retreat is designed to offer a five-star experience where members can escape their daily pressures."
The spa facilities include a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds. A range of professional treatments will also be available for booking. This focus on premium wellness aligns with growing consumer demand for holistic health experiences.
The Wellness Economy
According to the Global Wellness Institute, the global wellness economy was valued at $5.6 trillion in 2022 and is projected to continue its strong growth. Facilities that integrate fitness, mental wellness, and relaxation are increasingly popular with consumers seeking a comprehensive approach to their health.
The club is also designed to be highly family-friendly. A dedicated DL Kids area will host a variety of activities for children, supervised by qualified staff. There is also an outdoor play area and a soft-play frame indoors. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities.
Community Hub and Economic Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd club is a significant development for the local economy. The creation of approximately 80 full-time and part-time jobs provides a welcome boost to the Midlothian area. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff.
The club also features a spacious Clubroom with an indoor and outdoor terrace, which serves as a social hub for members. The space offers a food and beverage menu throughout the day, providing a place for members to work, socialise, or relax after a workout. This social aspect is a key part of the David Lloyd model, fostering a sense of community among its members.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, viewing it as a vote of confidence in the Shawfair development's future. The presence of a premium brand like David Lloyd is expected to attract further investment and new residents to the area, contributing to its growth as a desirable place to live and work.
