David Lloyd Leisure has expanded its presence in Scotland with the opening of a new £11 million health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian. The state-of-the-art facility is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and provide a wide range of premium fitness, spa, and family-oriented services to the local community.
The new club, which officially opened its doors this week, represents a significant investment in the rapidly growing Shawfair development. It aims to become a central hub for health and wellbeing in the region, offering members access to advanced gym equipment, swimming pools, and extensive racquet sports facilities.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has opened a new £11 million club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility has created around 80 permanent and temporary jobs in the area.
- Features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a luxury spa.
- The club is part of the larger Shawfair development, which will include 4,000 new homes.
A Major Investment in Community Wellbeing
The Shawfair club is the latest addition to the David Lloyd Leisure portfolio, which now includes over 130 locations across Europe. The company has invested heavily in creating a comprehensive wellness destination that caters to individuals and families alike. According to company officials, the goal was to build more than just a gym, but a community space where members can focus on their physical and mental health.
The development process involved several years of planning and construction, culminating in a facility that spans several acres. The investment underscores the growing demand for premium health and leisure services outside of major city centers. Shawfair, a new town being built on the outskirts of Edinburgh, was identified as an ideal location due to its planned residential growth and community-focused infrastructure.
Stirling Warrington, CEO of David Lloyd Leisure, stated that the opening marks a key milestone for the company. "We are thrilled to bring our world-class facilities to Shawfair. This club represents our commitment to investing in communities and providing spaces that promote a healthy and active lifestyle," he said in a press release.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The £11 million project has provided a significant economic boost to the Midlothian region. During the construction phase, numerous local contractors and suppliers were involved. With its official opening, the club has created approximately 80 new jobs, ranging from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and administrative roles.
These new employment opportunities are a welcome addition to the local economy. The club is expected to attract members from across Midlothian and south Edinburgh, further stimulating local commerce. This aligns with the broader vision for the Shawfair development, which aims to be a self-sustaining community with its own commercial and leisure facilities.
About the Shawfair Development
Shawfair is one of Southeast Scotland's most ambitious development projects. Situated south-east of Edinburgh, the plan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, a town center, and extensive public green spaces. The inclusion of a major leisure facility like the David Lloyd Club is a key component of creating a vibrant and desirable community for new residents.
Inside the New State-of-the-Art Facility
The Shawfair club boasts an impressive array of amenities designed to meet diverse fitness and relaxation needs. The facility is structured to provide a premium experience for all members, from serious athletes to families looking for recreational activities.
The centerpiece of the club is its expansive 100-station gymnasium. It is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands, including interactive cardio machines, a large free-weights area, and dedicated functional training zones. Members can also participate in a wide variety of group exercise classes held in three purpose-built studios for activities like yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
"Our aim was to create a facility that inspires and motivates. Every piece of equipment, every class, and every space has been carefully chosen to provide the best possible experience for our members." - Michelle Prince, General Manager of David Lloyd Shawfair.
Swimming and Racquet Sports
The club features extensive aquatic facilities. This includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, as well as a shallower indoor family pool. A key highlight is the 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming in an open-air setting.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the facility offers:
- Three indoor Padel courts, catering to the fast-growing sport.
- Four championship-standard indoor tennis courts.
- Three badminton courts.
Professional coaching is available for all racquet sports, catering to all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. This makes the club one of the premier destinations for racquet sports in the region.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £11 million
- Gym Size: 100+ stations
- Pools: 25m indoor, 20m outdoor heated, indoor family pool
- Tennis Courts: 4 indoor
- Padel Courts: 3 indoor
- Spa: Luxury spa garden with sauna, steam room, and hydro pool
Focus on Wellness and Family
Beyond traditional fitness, the David Lloyd Shawfair club places a strong emphasis on holistic wellness. The luxurious spa area, known as the 'Spa Retreat,' is a major attraction. It offers a tranquil environment for members to relax and rejuvenate.
The spa includes a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and an outdoor spa garden with relaxation zones. A range of professional treatments are also available. This focus on mental wellbeing and recovery is a core part of the David Lloyd brand identity.
A Hub for Families
The club is designed to be family-friendly. It includes a dedicated DL Kids area with a full schedule of supervised activities for children, allowing parents to use the facilities with peace of mind. The club also offers swimming and tennis lessons for children as part of its junior coaching programs.
A spacious Clubroom serves as the social heart of the facility. It features an indoor restaurant and an outdoor patio area, offering a menu of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. This space is designed for members to socialize, work, or relax after a workout, reinforcing the club's role as a community hub.
The opening of the Shawfair club signals continued confidence in the UK's health and wellness market. As communities like Shawfair grow, integrated leisure facilities are becoming an essential part of the modern residential landscape, promoting active lifestyles and local economic growth.