David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest luxury health, spa, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following an £11.5 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's third in Scotland, is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs in the local community.
Situated within the major Shawfair housing development south-east of Edinburgh, the club aims to provide premium wellness and leisure amenities to the growing local population. The opening marks a significant addition to the area's community infrastructure, offering extensive facilities for families and individuals.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has opened a new £11.5 million facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The project has generated around 80 full-time and part-time jobs.
- The club features a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, and extensive racquet sports courts.
- It is the 103rd club in the UK for the David Lloyd group and the third in Scotland.
A Comprehensive Look at the New Facility
The new David Lloyd Shawfair club is designed to be a comprehensive destination for health, fitness, and relaxation. The facility spans a significant area, incorporating both indoor and outdoor spaces to cater to a wide range of activities and preferences throughout the year.
Construction of the club represents a major investment in the region's leisure sector. According to the company, the development was carefully planned to integrate with the new Shawfair community, providing residents with convenient access to high-quality wellness services. The club's design focuses on creating a premium experience for members of all ages.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Gym Area
At the core of the club is a modern, spacious gymnasium equipped with the latest fitness technology. The gym floor includes a diverse range of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a dedicated free-weights area. This setup is designed to accommodate various workout styles, from beginners to experienced athletes.
In addition to the main gym, the facility includes several specialized fitness studios. Members can access a full schedule of classes, including:
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT) in a purpose-built studio.
- Cycling classes in a dedicated spin studio with immersive lighting and sound.
- Mind and body sessions such as yoga, Pilates, and meditation in a serene studio environment.
These varied offerings ensure that members have multiple options to achieve their fitness goals under the guidance of professional instructors.
Facility at a Glance
The Shawfair club is David Lloyd's 103rd in the UK. The company also operates internationally with 28 clubs across mainland Europe, making it a significant player in the health and wellness industry.
Extensive Spa and Aquatic Offerings
A key feature of the new Shawfair location is its luxurious spa, branded as the 'Spa Retreat'. This area is designed as an exclusive sanctuary for adult members to relax and rejuvenate. It includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Finnish sauna, a salt steam room, and a crystal steam room. These amenities provide a full thermal spa experience.
The club also boasts impressive swimming facilities. There is a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower indoor pool for children. For warmer weather, a 20-meter outdoor swimming pool is available, surrounded by a patio with sun loungers, offering a resort-like atmosphere.
"Our new Shawfair club is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional facilities for families to prioritize their health and wellbeing," a spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs stated. "We have seen a growing demand for premium wellness destinations that cater to the entire family."
Racquet Sports and Family-Focused Amenities
David Lloyd Clubs has a strong reputation for its racquet sports facilities, and the Shawfair club continues this tradition. The club features multiple indoor and outdoor tennis courts, allowing for year-round play. Additionally, it offers courts for other popular sports like badminton and squash.
Recognizing the growing popularity of padel tennis, the new club has also included several dedicated padel courts. This fast-paced, social sport has seen a surge in interest across the UK, and its inclusion highlights the club's effort to stay current with fitness trends.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court and is typically played in doubles. Its simplicity and social nature have made it one of the fastest-growing sports in Europe.
The club is also designed to be family-friendly. It includes a dedicated DL Kids area with a full activity schedule, a soft-play structure, and an outdoor play area. This allows parents to use the club's facilities while their children are engaged in supervised activities.
Integration with the Shawfair Community
The new David Lloyd club is a cornerstone of the larger Shawfair development, a project managed by Shawfair LLP. This master-planned community is one of the largest urban expansion projects in Scotland and will eventually include 4,000 new homes, schools, retail spaces, and public parks.
The inclusion of a major wellness facility like David Lloyd is intended to enhance the quality of life for residents and establish Shawfair as a desirable place to live. The club's location provides easy access for the new community and surrounding areas in Midlothian and Edinburgh.
Economic Contribution and Job Creation
The £11.5 million investment has provided a significant economic boost to the area. The creation of approximately 80 permanent jobs across various roles—including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and maintenance—is a key benefit for the local economy.
According to developers, the club is expected to attract members from across the region, further supporting local businesses and services. This type of commercial investment is crucial for the long-term sustainability and success of large-scale residential developments like Shawfair.
