David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £12.5 million investment. The new facility, which opened its doors to members this month, is expected to create approximately 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local community.
The state-of-the-art club is the company's 103rd location in the United Kingdom and its fourth in Scotland. It aims to provide comprehensive fitness and leisure services for families and individuals, featuring extensive gym facilities, swimming pools, and dedicated spa areas.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has launched a new £12.5 million club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The new facility has created around 80 new jobs for the local area.
- This is the company's 103rd club in the UK and the fourth in Scotland.
- Features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, and extensive family amenities.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club represents a significant investment in the growing Midlothian community. The £12.5 million project underscores David Lloyd's strategy of expanding its presence in key regional areas across the UK.
Construction of the purpose-built facility was a major undertaking, designed to meet the highest standards of modern leisure centers. The club is situated within the developing Shawfair town, a planned community located between Edinburgh and Dalkeith, making it a central hub for residents.
According to company statements, the goal was to create a premium destination for health and wellbeing that caters to all age groups. The creation of 80 jobs provides a notable boost to local employment, with roles ranging from fitness instruction and hospitality to club management and maintenance.
Strategic Location and Membership Growth
The choice of Shawfair is strategic, targeting one of Scotland's fastest-growing residential areas. The new town is projected to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and community facilities over the next decade. Placing a high-end leisure club in this location is intended to attract new families moving into the area.
"We are thrilled to bring our first-class facilities to the Shawfair community," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Clubs. "Our investment reflects our confidence in the area's growth and our commitment to providing a premium wellness experience for our members."
The club reported strong initial interest, with a significant number of founding members joining before the official opening. This early uptake suggests a high demand for quality leisure and fitness options in the region.
Inside the New Shawfair Facility
The new David Lloyd club in Shawfair offers an extensive range of facilities designed to cater to a diverse membership base. The amenities are spread across a large, modern building with distinct zones for fitness, relaxation, and family activities.
Facility by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £12.5 million
- Gym Equipment: Over 100 stations
- Swimming Pools: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
- Racquet Courts: Padel and Tennis
- New Jobs Created: Approximately 80
The centerpiece of the fitness area is a spacious, 100-station gym equipped with the latest technology from leading brands. This includes a wide array of cardio machines, weightlifting equipment, and functional training zones. The club also features dedicated studios for various group exercise classes.
Swimming and Spa Facilities
A key attraction for many members is the comprehensive aquatic and spa offering. The club includes:
- A 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons.
- A shallower indoor family pool for children.
- A 20-meter heated outdoor swimming pool, allowing for year-round use.
Adjacent to the pools is the luxury Spa Retreat. This area provides a tranquil environment for adult members to relax and rejuvenate. The spa features a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds. An outdoor spa garden with a sauna and relaxation area is also available.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
The inclusion of Padel courts at the Shawfair club highlights the sport's growing popularity in the UK. 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. Its simplicity makes it easy to learn, contributing to its rapid expansion worldwide.
Family-Focused Amenities and Services
A significant part of the David Lloyd model is its focus on family-friendly services. The Shawfair club is designed to accommodate members of all ages, with dedicated spaces and programs for children.
The DL Kids area offers a structured timetable of activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and supervised play sessions. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities. The club also runs a comprehensive swimming and tennis coaching program for young members.
For dining and socializing, the club features a large 'Clubroom' with an indoor and outdoor terrace. The space serves as a central hub where members can work, relax, or enjoy a meal with family and friends. The menu offers a range of healthy and family-friendly food and beverage options.
Commitment to Member Experience
The club's design and programming emphasize a holistic approach to wellness. Beyond physical fitness, the facilities are intended to promote mental wellbeing and social connection. The variety of spaces, from high-energy studios to quiet spa retreats, allows members to tailor their experience to their daily needs.
The integration of technology is also apparent, with a mobile app that allows members to book classes, courts, and personal training sessions. This focus on convenience is a key part of the modern David Lloyd member experience.