David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest luxury health, spa, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, representing a significant £30 million investment in the region. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to create approximately 100 new full and part-time jobs, providing a major boost to the local economy.
Located just south-east of Edinburgh, the new club offers an extensive range of premium fitness and wellness amenities. The opening marks David Lloyd's 103rd club in the UK and is designed to cater to families and individuals seeking comprehensive health and leisure services.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian, as part of a £30 million development project.
- The facility has created around 100 new jobs, spanning roles from management to hospitality and fitness instruction.
- Key features include indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa garden, multiple fitness studios, and courts for tennis and padel.
- The club is strategically located to serve the growing community of Shawfair, a new town being developed near Edinburgh.
A New Hub for Health and Wellness
The Shawfair club is one of the most ambitious projects for David Lloyd Clubs in recent years. The facility spans a considerable area, offering a wide array of services designed to meet diverse fitness and relaxation needs. Construction of the club was a major undertaking, reflecting the company's commitment to providing high-end leisure experiences.
General Manager Jack Cilliers expressed enthusiasm for the launch. He highlighted the club's role as a community-focused destination where members can pursue their health goals, relax, and socialize.
"We are thrilled to be officially open and to welcome our first members to this fantastic new club," said Jack Cilliers. "The level of investment and the sheer range of facilities and expertise on offer is exceptional, and we’re confident that David Lloyd Shawfair will be a place for families to create lasting memories."
Extensive Facilities and Amenities
The new David Lloyd Club is equipped with a comprehensive suite of modern facilities. The design emphasizes both active fitness and tranquil relaxation, providing a balanced experience for all members.
Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is a state-of-the-art gym featuring the latest cardio and strength training equipment. In addition to the main gym floor, the club includes several specialized studios for group classes.
- Blaze Studio: A high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout that combines cardio, strength, and combat exercises.
- Rhythm Studio: An immersive cycling studio designed for high-energy group cycling classes.
- Mind & Body Studio: A dedicated space for holistic classes such as yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- High Impact Studio: For a range of dynamic, energetic group fitness classes.
Club by the Numbers
- Investment: £30 million
- New Jobs: Approximately 100
- Total Clubs in UK: 103
- Swimming Pools: 2 (one indoor, one outdoor)
Swimming and Spa Facilities
Water-based activities are a core part of the club's offering. Members have access to a 20-meter indoor swimming pool and a 25-meter outdoor heated pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The outdoor pool area is complemented by a sun terrace for relaxation during warmer months.
The club's spa is a major highlight, providing a luxurious sanctuary for wellness. The Spa Retreat includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, and an ice experience room. A unique feature is the outdoor Spa Garden, which contains its own sauna and relaxation zones, offering a peaceful escape.
Racquet Sports and Family Areas
True to its heritage, the club provides excellent facilities for racquet sports. There are multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts, catering to players of all skill levels. The club has also embraced the growing popularity of padel, a hybrid of tennis and squash, with dedicated padel courts available for members.
Families are well-catered for with dedicated DL Kids facilities. These areas offer a range of activities and coaching for children, allowing parents to enjoy the club's other amenities. The central Clubroom serves as a social hub, offering a space for members to dine, work, and connect with others.
The Growth of Shawfair
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant new town developments. Located between Edinburgh and Dalkeith, the project aims to build 4,000 new homes, schools, and community facilities over the next two decades. The decision by David Lloyd Clubs to invest in this location underscores the area's anticipated growth and its appeal to new residents and businesses.
Economic Impact and Local Job Creation
The £30 million investment in the Shawfair club has had a direct and positive impact on the local economy. The creation of around 100 jobs is a significant development for Midlothian. The recruitment drive sought individuals for a variety of roles, including:
- Management and administrative positions
- Fitness coaches and personal trainers
- Spa therapists and wellness experts
- Hospitality staff for the Clubroom
- Children's activity coordinators
According to the company, the hiring process focused on finding local talent to build a team that is integrated with the community it serves. This approach not only provides employment but also helps ensure the club's long-term success as a local institution.
A Strategic Addition to a Growing Community
The selection of Shawfair as the location for the new club was a strategic decision. The area is undergoing rapid development, with thousands of new homes planned. The David Lloyd facility is positioned to become a key amenity for this new and expanding population.
The club's presence is expected to enhance the appeal of Shawfair as a place to live, offering premium leisure facilities right on the doorstep of new residents. This type of high-quality infrastructure is crucial for the success of large-scale residential developments.
Jack Cilliers commented on the club's future role in the community, stating, "Our new club is set to become a destination for families in the area to spend quality time together. We look forward to being a part of the vibrant Shawfair community for many years to come."
