David Lloyd Clubs has announced the development of a new £11.5 million luxury health and wellness facility in Shawfair, Midlothian. The project, which marks the company's 100th club in the United Kingdom, is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and will serve as a key amenity for the rapidly growing community south-east of Edinburgh.
Scheduled to open in the summer of 2023, the club will be situated within the new Shawfair Business Park. It will offer a comprehensive range of premium fitness, spa, and racquet sports facilities, including one of the UK's first spa gardens with an outdoor sauna and hydro pool.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: A £11.5 million development project in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- Job Creation: The new club is projected to create around 80 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Milestone Location: This will be the 100th David Lloyd Club to open in the UK.
- Premium Facilities: Features include a 10,000 sq ft gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa garden, and Padel tennis courts.
- Strategic Anchor: The club will be a cornerstone of the new Shawfair Business Park, supporting the area's growth.
A Significant £11.5 Million Investment in Midlothian
The new David Lloyd Club represents a substantial investment in the local economy of Midlothian. The £11.5 million funding underscores the company's confidence in the Shawfair development, a major urban expansion project planned to include 4,000 new homes.
This development is not just about providing leisure facilities; it is also a significant source of local employment. The company anticipates hiring for approximately 80 positions, ranging from management and fitness instruction to hospitality and maintenance roles. This will provide a welcome economic boost to the new town and surrounding areas.
What is Shawfair?
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant urban expansion projects. Located just south-east of Edinburgh, it is a planned new town that will eventually feature 4,000 homes, schools, community facilities, and commercial spaces. The inclusion of a premium facility like the David Lloyd Club is a key part of establishing the area as a desirable place to live and work.
The club's location within the Shawfair Business Park makes it an anchor tenant, intended to attract other businesses and drive commercial activity in the new development. Its presence is expected to enhance the appeal of the business park for other potential occupants.
Comprehensive Facilities for Fitness and Relaxation
The Shawfair club is designed to offer a wide array of state-of-the-art amenities catering to individuals and families. The layout and features are consistent with David Lloyd's premium branding, focusing on a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Advanced Fitness and Group Exercise
At the heart of the club will be a 10,000 square foot gymnasium. According to the plans, it will be equipped with modern fitness technology and a diverse range of strength and cardiovascular equipment. This large space is designed to accommodate many members without feeling crowded.
In addition to the main gym floor, the facility will house four dedicated group exercise studios:
- A High Energy studio for fast-paced classes.
- A Cyclone studio for group cycling workouts.
- A Mind & Body studio for activities like yoga and Pilates.
- A BLAZE studio, offering a unique high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout.
Luxury Spa and Swimming Amenities
A standout feature of the new club is its extensive spa and aquatic offerings. Members will have access to both a 20-meter indoor swimming pool and a 25-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming.
Introducing the Spa Garden
The Shawfair location will be one of the first David Lloyd Clubs in the UK to feature a luxurious outdoor Spa Garden. This dedicated relaxation area is designed to provide a resort-like experience, complete with an outdoor sauna, a hydro pool, and a fire pit for socialising and unwinding.
The emphasis on high-end spa facilities reflects a growing trend in the wellness industry, where consumers are seeking integrated experiences that combine fitness with relaxation and mental well-being.
Expanding Racquet Sports and Family Offerings
True to its heritage, the new David Lloyd Club will have a strong focus on racquet sports. The facility will include three indoor tennis courts, allowing for play regardless of the weather. This continues the brand's long-standing commitment to the sport.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
In a nod to modern trends, the club will also feature two Padel courts. Padel, a sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is one of the fastest-growing racquet sports in the world. Its inclusion is a strategic move to attract a new generation of players looking for a social and fast-paced game.
"We are excited to bring our 100th club to the vibrant, growing community of Shawfair. This club will not only provide exceptional health and wellness facilities but also serve as a social hub for members and their families."
For families, the club will offer dedicated DL Kids facilities, with activities and spaces designed for children. A Clubroom with an indoor and outdoor terrace will provide a comfortable space for members to eat, socialise, and relax. Furthermore, a business hub area will be available for those who wish to work remotely in a quiet and professional setting.
Supporting a New Community
The establishment of the David Lloyd Club is a key milestone for the Shawfair development. High-quality amenities are crucial for attracting residents to a new town, and the club is positioned to become a central part of the community's social fabric.
By offering a premium destination for fitness, family time, and relaxation, the club aims to improve the quality of life for those living in and around Shawfair. Its opening is seen as a vote of confidence in the long-term vision for this new part of Midlothian, providing essential infrastructure that goes beyond just housing.
