David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15.5 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's third in the Edinburgh area, is expected to create over 80 new jobs and provide extensive fitness and leisure amenities to the growing local community.
The state-of-the-art club spans an impressive 9,977 square meters and is designed to cater to all ages and fitness levels. It features a wide range of facilities, including a modern gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxurious spa, positioning it as a significant new destination for health and wellbeing in the region.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian, representing a £15.5 million investment.
- The facility is expected to generate more than 80 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Key features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club aims to serve the rapidly expanding communities in Shawfair and surrounding areas like Dalkeith and Sheriffhall.
A Major Investment in Community Wellbeing
The opening of the Shawfair club marks a significant expansion for David Lloyd Leisure in Scotland. The £15.5 million project underscores the company's confidence in the region's economic growth and its commitment to providing premium wellness facilities.
According to company representatives, the Shawfair location was strategically chosen to serve the new housing developments and established communities south-east of Edinburgh. The club is designed to be a central hub for families and individuals seeking a comprehensive approach to health and fitness.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £15.5 Million
- Facility Size: 9,977 square meters
- New Jobs Created: Over 80
- Gym Stations: 100+
- Tennis Courts: 6 (3 indoor, 3 outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
The development is not just about fitness; it's also about creating a social space. The club includes a dedicated business hub, a Clubroom for dining, and an outdoor patio area, encouraging members to use the facility for work, relaxation, and socializing.
Extensive Facilities for All Ages
The new David Lloyd Club in Shawfair offers a diverse range of amenities designed to meet the needs of a wide demographic. From serious athletes to families with young children, the club provides tailored spaces and activities.
Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the fitness offering is the 100-station gym, which is equipped with the latest technology from leading brands. This includes a variety of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a dedicated functional fitness zone called the Synrgy360.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club features three specialized group exercise studios:
- Mind & Body Studio: A serene space for classes like yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- High-Impact Studio: Designed for energetic classes such as HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) and aerobics.
- Cycle Hub: A dedicated studio for indoor cycling classes with immersive sound and lighting systems.
These studios will host a timetable of over 100 classes per week, all led by certified instructors and included in the membership.
Aquatic and Racquet Sports
Swimming and tennis are core components of the David Lloyd experience. The Shawfair club boasts impressive aquatic facilities, including a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and a shallower indoor pool for families and lessons. A key attraction is the 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round open-air swimming.
"Our goal was to create a destination that feels like a five-star resort, but with a strong sense of community. The heated outdoor pool and expansive spa garden are central to that vision, offering members a place to escape and rejuvenate."
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club offers six championship-standard tennis courts—three indoor and three outdoor—ensuring play is possible in any weather. Professional coaching programs are available for both adults and children, catering to all skill levels from beginner to advanced.
Who is David Lloyd Leisure?
David Lloyd Leisure is one of Europe's leading health, sport, and leisure groups. Founded in 1982, the company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. Known for its family-friendly approach and premium facilities, the brand focuses on combining fitness, racquet sports, and relaxation under one roof.
Focus on Family and Relaxation
A major focus of the Shawfair club is its family-oriented services. The facility includes a dedicated DL Kids area offering a variety of activities, from sports coaching to arts and crafts, for children aged 3 months to 16 years. This allows parents to enjoy their own workouts or relaxation time knowing their children are engaged in supervised activities.
The club's commitment to wellness extends beyond physical exercise. The luxurious spa provides a tranquil retreat for adult members. Key features of the spa include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- A Himalayan salt sauna
- A steam room and a traditional Finnish sauna
- Heated relaxation beds
- An outdoor spa garden for relaxation
This comprehensive spa area is designed to provide a complete wellness circuit, helping members to de-stress and recover after workouts or simply unwind after a busy day.
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
The launch of the David Lloyd Shawfair club brings a welcome economic boost to Midlothian. The creation of over 80 jobs across various roles—from fitness instructors and spa therapists to management and hospitality staff—represents a significant local employment opportunity.
The club is located adjacent to the Shawfair Park and Ride, offering excellent transport links for members from Edinburgh, Dalkeith, and the wider Lothians area. Its presence is expected to attract more visitors and investment to the rapidly developing Shawfair town center.
As communities place an increasing emphasis on health and wellbeing, facilities like the David Lloyd Club are becoming integral parts of local infrastructure. The Shawfair club is poised to become a cornerstone of the community, promoting active lifestyles and providing a valuable social hub for years to come.