David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets facility in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15 million investment. The new club, which is the company's 103rd location in the United Kingdom, is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs in the local area.
The state-of-the-art facility spans over 9,500 square meters and offers a comprehensive range of amenities for individuals and families. The opening marks a significant expansion for the David Lloyd brand in Scotland, complementing its existing clubs in Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian, representing a £15 million investment.
- The facility is the 103rd David Lloyd club in the UK and the fourth in Scotland.
- Approximately 80 full-time and part-time jobs have been created for the local community.
- The club features extensive fitness, spa, racquets, and family-oriented facilities, including both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club represents one of David Lloyd's most significant investments in Scotland to date. The £15 million project was designed to cater to the growing residential community in Shawfair, a newly developed town on the outskirts of Edinburgh.
Company officials stated that the location was chosen due to its strategic position and the rapid growth of the surrounding area. The club aims to become a central hub for health, fitness, and social activities for residents in Midlothian and southeast Edinburgh.
Project by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £15 million
- Facility Size: 9,500 square meters
- New Jobs Created: 80
- Tennis Courts: 6 (3 indoor, 3 outdoor)
- Swimming Pools: 2 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor)
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The creation of 80 new jobs is a notable boost for the local economy. Roles range from fitness coaches and tennis professionals to spa therapists, restaurant staff, and administrative personnel. The recruitment process focused on hiring from the local community where possible.
According to a statement from the company, the club is committed to ongoing staff development and training, providing career opportunities in the leisure and hospitality sector. The investment also supported numerous local contractors and suppliers during the construction phase.
Comprehensive Facilities and Modern Amenities
The Shawfair club is equipped with a wide array of modern facilities designed to meet diverse fitness and wellness needs. The centerpiece is the expansive gym, which houses cutting-edge equipment from leading fitness technology brands.
The layout includes dedicated zones for different types of training, such as cardio, strength, and functional fitness. Members have access to a team of personal trainers and a schedule of group exercise classes held in three large studios.
About David Lloyd Clubs
Founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd, the company has grown to become one of Europe's leading health and leisure groups. It operates 133 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe, with a focus on providing premium facilities for fitness, racquets sports, and family activities.
Swimming and Spa Facilities
A key attraction of the new club is its extensive aquatic and relaxation offerings. The facility includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower family pool. An additional 20-meter heated outdoor pool allows for year-round swimming.
Adjacent to the pools is the luxurious Spa Retreat. This area is designed for relaxation and features a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and heated spa beds. The spa provides a tranquil, adult-only environment for members to unwind.
"Our goal with the Shawfair club was to create a premium destination that offers something for everyone, from serious athletes to families looking for a place to relax and spend quality time together. This £15 million investment underscores our confidence in the region and our commitment to promoting community well-being."
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Activities
Staying true to its heritage, the club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. It features six championship-standard tennis courts—three indoor and three outdoor—as well as several badminton and squash courts. A team of certified coaches offers programs for all ages and skill levels.
For families, the club includes a dedicated DL Kids area with a full schedule of supervised activities. There is also a soft play frame, an outdoor play area, and specialized coaching programs for children. The club's restaurant, known as the Clubroom, provides a social space with an indoor lounge and an outdoor patio, offering a menu designed for both adults and children.
Membership and Community Integration
David Lloyd Clubs operate on a membership model, and the Shawfair location has seen strong initial interest. The company offered a limited number of pre-opening memberships, which were reportedly met with high demand from the local community.
The club's management has expressed a desire to integrate into the local community by hosting events and partnering with local schools and organizations. The aim is to position the club not just as a gym, but as a core part of the social fabric of the new Shawfair town.
The opening of this facility is part of a broader trend of investment in health and wellness infrastructure in suburban areas, reflecting a growing consumer demand for high-quality, accessible leisure options outside of major city centers. As the Shawfair community continues to expand, the club is well-positioned to become a key local landmark.