David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £12 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's second in the Edinburgh area, is expected to create approximately 180 new jobs and provide a comprehensive range of fitness and leisure amenities to the local community.
The state-of-the-art club is located within the growing Shawfair development, situated between the A7 and A68 trunk roads. It aims to serve as a central hub for health and wellbeing for residents in Shawfair, Dalkeith, and the surrounding Midlothian and East Lothian areas.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £12 million in a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The new facility will create around 180 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Features include a 100+ station gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is the company's 104th in the UK and 134th worldwide, reinforcing its market position.
A Major Investment in Community Wellbeing
The Shawfair club represents a significant financial commitment by David Lloyd Leisure Group, continuing its expansion across the UK. The £12 million project underscores the company's confidence in the growing demand for premium family-oriented health and wellness facilities.
According to company representatives, the development was designed to cater to all ages and fitness levels. The extensive facility spans several acres and incorporates both indoor and outdoor spaces to offer a year-round experience for members.
"Our goal with the Shawfair club is to create more than just a gym; it's a destination for families and individuals to focus on their physical and mental wellbeing. This investment reflects our commitment to providing best-in-class facilities that become integral parts of the community."
The creation of 180 jobs is a notable economic benefit for the Midlothian region. Roles range from fitness coaches and tennis professionals to spa therapists and hospitality staff, providing a variety of employment opportunities.
Extensive Facilities and Modern Amenities
The new David Lloyd Shawfair club offers a wide array of amenities designed to meet diverse fitness and relaxation needs. The facility is structured to provide a premium experience, combining cutting-edge technology with high-quality service.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £12 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 180
- Gym Size: Over 100 workout stations
- Swimming Pools: 25m indoor pool, 20m outdoor pool, and a kids' splash pool
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor courts, 3 outdoor courts
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Studios
At the core of the club is a large, modern gymnasium equipped with over 100 stations. This includes the latest cardio and resistance machines from leading brands, as well as a spacious free weights area. The gym is designed with an open-plan layout to accommodate various training styles.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club features four dedicated group exercise studios:
- A High-Impact Studio: For energetic classes like BodyPump™ and HIIT sessions.
- A Mind & Body Studio: A serene space for yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- A Group Cycling Studio: Featuring immersive lighting and sound systems.
- A BLAZE Studio: Offering David Lloyd's signature HIIT workout that combines cardio, strength, and combat training.
The variety of studios allows for a packed timetable of over 100 weekly classes, all included within the membership.
Racquet Sports and Swimming Pools
True to its heritage, the Shawfair club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. It boasts three indoor and three outdoor tennis courts, allowing for year-round play. The club also offers professional coaching programs for both adults and children, catering to all skill levels from beginner to advanced.
The aquatic facilities are a major highlight. Members have access to a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a separate, warmer indoor splash pool for young children. A key feature is the 20-meter heated outdoor pool, which allows for open-air swimming throughout the year.
The Growing Shawfair Development
Shawfair is one of Scotland's largest urban expansion projects. Planned over 30 years, it will eventually include 4,000 new homes, schools, a town centre, and commercial spaces. The inclusion of a major leisure facility like the David Lloyd Club is a key part of the masterplan to create a self-sufficient and attractive community for new residents.
Focus on Family and Relaxation
David Lloyd Clubs has built its brand on being family-friendly, and the Shawfair location continues this tradition. The club includes dedicated spaces and programs for younger members, ensuring it is a destination for the entire family.
DL Kids and Family Activities
The DL Kids program offers a wide range of supervised activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years. These activities are aligned with national curriculum standards and include sports, arts and crafts, and educational games. This allows parents to enjoy their own workouts or relaxation time knowing their children are engaged and cared for.
The club also features a large indoor soft-play area and an outdoor playground, providing ample space for children to play.
The Luxury Spa and Clubroom
For adults seeking relaxation and recovery, the club includes a luxurious spa area. The spa facilities are designed to provide a tranquil escape and include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- A Finnish sauna
- A steam room
- Heated relaxation beds
Adjacent to the main club facilities is the Clubroom, a spacious café, bar, and restaurant area. It serves as the social heart of the club, offering a place for members to work, socialize, or relax with a meal. The Clubroom features both an indoor dining area and an outdoor patio overlooking the grounds, providing a comfortable environment for members to connect.
Strategic Expansion for David Lloyd
The opening of the Shawfair club marks another step in the strategic growth of the David Lloyd Leisure Group. It is the 104th club in the UK and the 134th globally, solidifying its position as a leading operator in the premium health and fitness sector.
The choice of Shawfair is strategic, tapping into a rapidly expanding residential area that lacks comparable high-end leisure facilities. By establishing a presence early in the community's development, David Lloyd aims to become the go-to destination for health and fitness in the region.
The new club is expected to attract members from a wide catchment area, including Dalkeith, Bonnyrigg, Musselburgh, and other parts of East and Midlothian. Its convenient location near major transport links makes it easily accessible for a large population, supporting its long-term viability and success.
