David Lloyd Clubs 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 Scotland, is expected to create approximately 80 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local community.
The state-of-the-art club aims to provide a premium destination for families and individuals, featuring extensive fitness equipment, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a variety of racquet sports facilities. The opening marks a significant expansion for the David Lloyd brand in Scotland and reflects growing demand for comprehensive wellness services.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £15.5 million facility in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The project has created approximately 80 new jobs in the region.
- The club includes advanced fitness areas, swimming pools, spa facilities, and racquet courts.
- This is the third David Lloyd Club in Scotland, joining locations in Glasgow and Aberdeen.
- The facility is designed to cater to families, with dedicated kids' zones and activities.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The new Shawfair club represents a significant capital investment by David Lloyd Leisure, totaling £15.5 million. This development is strategically located to serve the growing communities in Midlothian and south Edinburgh. Company officials stated the project was designed to meet the highest standards of modern health and fitness facilities.
Construction of the multi-purpose complex focused on creating a comprehensive environment for health, sport, and relaxation. The facility spans a large footprint, incorporating both indoor and outdoor spaces designed for year-round use. This investment underscores the company's confidence in the Scottish market and its commitment to expanding its presence beyond its existing clubs in Glasgow and Aberdeen.
Background on David Lloyd Leisure
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in Europe. The company operates over 130 clubs across the UK and mainland Europe. Known for its family-oriented approach and premium facilities, the brand focuses on racquet sports, fitness, and wellness services.
The development is also a key component of the wider Shawfair masterplan, a long-term project to build a new town with thousands of homes, schools, and community amenities. The addition of the David Lloyd Club is seen as a major milestone in establishing Shawfair as a desirable place to live and work.
Inside the New Shawfair Club Facilities
The Shawfair location offers a wide array of amenities tailored to different fitness and leisure preferences. The club is designed to be a one-stop destination for health and wellness, providing members with access to a variety of high-quality equipment and spaces.
Advanced Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the club is its expansive gym, which is equipped with the latest fitness technology. Members have access to a wide range of cardio and strength training equipment from leading manufacturers. The gym floor is zoned into different areas, including sections for functional training, free weights, and plate-loaded machines.
A unique feature is the BLAZE studio, a boutique-style high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class. This signature David Lloyd offering combines cardio, strength, and combat training in a high-energy environment. Additionally, the club includes dedicated studios for group classes such as yoga, Pilates, and cycling.
"Our goal with the Shawfair club was to create a destination that offers something for everyone, regardless of their age or fitness level. We have invested heavily in the best equipment and facilities to ensure our members have an exceptional experience."
Swimming and Spa Facilities
Water-based activities are a core part of the club's offerings. The facility includes:
- A 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons.
- A 20-meter heated outdoor swimming pool, allowing for year-round use.
- A dedicated indoor splash pool for children.
Adjacent to the aquatic areas is the club's Spa Retreat. This adult-only zone is designed for relaxation and features a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and heated spa beds. The spa provides a quiet space for members to unwind after a workout or simply escape daily pressures.
By the Numbers: Shawfair Club
- Investment: £15.5 million
- Jobs Created: ~80
- Indoor Pool: 25 meters
- Outdoor Pool: 20 meters
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor, 3 outdoor
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Activities
Staying true to its heritage, the new club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The Shawfair facility boasts three indoor and three outdoor tennis courts, allowing for play in all weather conditions. The club also offers professional coaching for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced players.
In addition to tennis, members can use the available badminton and squash courts. The comprehensive racquet sports program is a key differentiator for the David Lloyd brand.
The club is also designed to be highly family-friendly. A dedicated DL Kids zone provides a safe and engaging space for children with a variety of activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and structured play sessions. This allows parents to use the gym or attend classes while their children are supervised.
The Clubroom provides a social hub for members, with a restaurant and café offering healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. An indoor soft-play area for younger children is also integrated into this space, making it a convenient spot for families to gather.
Economic Impact and Community Integration
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a positive development for the local economy. The creation of approximately 80 jobs provides new employment opportunities across various roles, including fitness instruction, hospitality, management, and maintenance.
According to local officials, the club is a welcome addition to the Shawfair development, enhancing the area's amenities and contributing to its appeal. The investment is expected to have a ripple effect, attracting further business and residential interest in the region.
A company spokesperson highlighted the importance of community integration. "We are excited to become part of the Shawfair community," the statement read. "We look forward to welcoming local residents and providing them with a first-class facility to support their health and wellbeing goals."
The club's launch is part of a broader trend of investment in the health and wellness sector, as more people prioritize physical and mental well-being. The comprehensive nature of the David Lloyd offering, which combines fitness, relaxation, and social elements, positions it to meet this growing demand effectively.
