David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest facility in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £12 million investment. The new club, which is the company's third in the Edinburgh area, is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and provide a significant boost to local leisure and wellness amenities.
The state-of-the-art health and racquets club is situated within the growing Shawfair community, located southeast of Edinburgh city centre. It aims to offer a comprehensive range of fitness, relaxation, and social facilities for families and individuals in the region.
Key Takeaways
- A new £12 million David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility is the 103rd club in the UK for the group and the third in the Edinburgh area.
- The project has created around 80 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Features include a 100-station gym, multiple pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development represents a significant financial commitment to the Midlothian area. The £12 million facility is one of the latest additions to David Lloyd's extensive portfolio, now numbering 133 clubs across Europe.
Construction of the Shawfair club was a substantial project, bringing a modern, purpose-built structure to the developing town. The opening marks a key milestone for the Shawfair development, which plans to deliver 4,000 new homes, schools, and community spaces over the coming years.
Shawfair Club by the Numbers
- Investment: £12 million
- New Jobs: ~80 positions
- UK Clubs: 103
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor, 3 outdoor
- Swimming Pools: 2 (20m indoor, 25m outdoor)
Company officials stated that the location was chosen specifically to cater to the expanding communities in Midlothian and East Lothian, providing premium health and fitness services where they are most needed.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The new club offers a wide array of amenities designed to cater to all ages and fitness levels. The facilities are spread across a spacious, modern complex, with distinct zones for different activities.
Fitness and Training Areas
At the heart of the club is a 100-station gymnasium equipped with the latest technology from Technogym. The gym features a diverse range of cardio and strength equipment, as well as dedicated functional training zones.
In addition to the main gym floor, there are three specialized group exercise studios. These include a high-intensity BLAZE studio, a tranquil Mind and Body studio for yoga and Pilates, and a dynamic Group Cycling studio.
What is BLAZE?
BLAZE is one of David Lloyd's signature high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes. The workout combines cardiovascular training, strength work, and boxing or martial arts in a dedicated studio with custom lighting and energetic music.
Racquet Sports and Swimming
True to its heritage, the club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. It boasts three indoor and three outdoor tennis courts, alongside facilities for badminton and squash. A comprehensive coaching program is available for both adults and children.
The swimming facilities are a major highlight, featuring a 20-metre indoor pool and a 25-metre heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. A separate indoor splash pool for children ensures a safe and fun environment for younger family members.
More Than Just a Gym
David Lloyd Clubs positions its locations as social hubs, and the Shawfair facility is no exception. The design encourages members to spend time at the club beyond their workouts.
"We are thrilled to be opening our third club in the Edinburgh area. Shawfair is a fantastic location, and we are excited to be part of this growing community, offering a destination for families to spend quality time together and focus on their health and wellbeing."
– Michelle Chambers, General Manager of David Lloyd Shawfair
Relaxation and Social Spaces
For relaxation and recovery, the club includes a luxurious spa area. The Spa Retreat features a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated beds, providing a tranquil escape for adult members.
A spacious Clubroom serves as the social centre of the facility. It includes a restaurant and bar with a dedicated family zone and an adults-only business area. This flexible space allows members to work, socialize, or relax with a meal.
The club also has extensive programs for children, including coaching for various sports and a DL Kids club, which offers supervised activities for children while their parents use the facilities.
Local Impact and Membership
The opening of the Shawfair club is a positive development for the local economy. The creation of approximately 80 jobs across various roles—from fitness instruction and hospitality to management and maintenance—provides new employment opportunities in the region.
The facility is expected to attract members from Shawfair, Dalkeith, and surrounding areas in Midlothian and East Lothian. Membership inquiries have been active in the lead-up to the opening, indicating strong local demand for premium leisure facilities.
While David Lloyd memberships are positioned at the premium end of the market, the company emphasizes the value provided by the extensive range of all-inclusive facilities. The club offers various membership tiers, including options for individuals, couples, and families.
