David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a significant £15.5 million investment. The new facility, which created approximately 80 local jobs, is the company's 104th club in the United Kingdom and aims to provide premium fitness and leisure services to the growing community south-east of Edinburgh.
The state-of-the-art club features extensive facilities for adults and children, including swimming pools, a modern gym, and dedicated spa areas. Its opening marks a major addition to the local amenities as the Shawfair development continues to expand.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Leisure has invested £15.5 million in a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The new facility has generated around 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities in the area.
- Key features include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a high-tech gym, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is designed to cater to families and individuals, with dedicated zones for children and adults.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development of the Shawfair club represents one of David Lloyd Leisure's most substantial recent investments in Scotland. The £15.5 million project underscores the company's confidence in the region's growth and the increasing demand for high-quality health and wellness facilities.
Construction of the purpose-built facility took place over 18 months, transforming a previously undeveloped site into a comprehensive leisure destination. The project involved local contractors and suppliers, contributing to the regional economy even before its official opening.
According to company statements, the primary goal is to create a community hub where families can spend quality time together while focusing on their physical and mental well-being. The club's design and programming reflect this family-centric approach.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The opening has provided a significant boost to local employment, with the creation of approximately 80 new jobs. These roles span various departments, including fitness instruction, hospitality, facility management, and childcare.
The recruitment process focused on hiring from the local Midlothian and Edinburgh communities. This strategy aims to ensure the club is integrated into the local fabric and provides stable employment for residents. The economic benefits extend beyond direct employment, with anticipated increases in local supply chain spending.
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £15.5 Million
- Jobs Created: ~80
- Gym Floor Space: 10,000 sq ft
- Swimming Pools: 3 (25m indoor, 20m outdoor, kids' splash pool)
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
- Group Exercise Studios: 4 (including Mind & Body, High Impact, and Cycling)
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Services
The Shawfair club offers a wide range of modern amenities designed to meet diverse fitness and relaxation needs. The facilities are spread across a large, newly constructed building with distinct zones for different activities.
Fitness and Training Areas
At the core of the club is a spacious 10,000-square-foot gymnasium. It is equipped with the latest fitness technology from leading brands, including a variety of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and functional fitness zones. Members have access to personal trainers who can create tailored workout programs.
The club also features four dedicated group exercise studios:
- A High-Impact Studio for energetic classes like BodyPump and circuit training.
- A Mind & Body Studio for holistic practices such as yoga, Pilates, and barre.
- An indoor Cycling Studio for high-intensity spin classes.
- A specialized BLAZE Studio offering a unique boutique-style HIIT workout that combines cardio, strength, and combat training.
Aquatic and Racquet Sports
A major highlight of the new facility is its extensive aquatic offering. Members can use a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, as well as a 20-meter heated outdoor pool that is open year-round. A separate indoor splash pool provides a safe and fun environment for young children.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club includes three indoor and two outdoor tennis courts. Padel, a rapidly growing sport, is also available with dedicated courts. Certified coaches are on hand to provide lessons for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced players.
What is Padel?
Padel is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is typically played in doubles on an enclosed court about one-third the size of a tennis court. Its growing popularity is due to its social nature and accessibility for players of all ages and abilities.
Focus on Relaxation and Family
Beyond fitness, the David Lloyd Shawfair club places a strong emphasis on relaxation and family-oriented services. The facilities are designed to provide a complete leisure experience for all members of the family.
The Spa and Wellness Sanctuary
A key feature is the luxurious spa area, designed as a tranquil retreat for adults. The spa includes a hydrotherapy pool, a Finnish sauna, a steam room, and heated relaxation beds. This area is intended to help members unwind, recover from workouts, and improve their overall mental well-being.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym; we wanted to build a premium destination for the whole family," said a regional manager for David Lloyd Leisure. "From our state-of-the-art fitness equipment to our dedicated kids' areas and serene spa, every aspect has been designed with our members' experience in mind."
Family-Friendly Amenities
The club is structured to be welcoming for families with children. A dedicated DL Kids club offers a wide range of supervised activities, including sports, arts and crafts, and games, allowing parents to use the facilities while their children are engaged in a safe environment. The club also provides swimming and tennis coaching specifically for younger members.
The central 'Clubroom' serves as a social hub, featuring a restaurant and café with both indoor and outdoor seating. The menu offers a range of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. This space also includes a business area with complimentary Wi-Fi for members who wish to work remotely.
Integration into the Shawfair Community
The new club is a cornerstone of the developing Shawfair community, a major urban expansion project in Scotland. Planned to include 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces, Shawfair is one of the largest new town developments in the country.
The David Lloyd club is one of the first major leisure facilities to open in the area, providing an essential amenity for new and existing residents. Its location near the Shawfair train station makes it easily accessible for commuters and residents from surrounding areas.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, noting its contribution to the community's infrastructure and its role in promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. The club is expected to attract members from across Midlothian, East Lothian, and south Edinburgh, further establishing Shawfair as a desirable place to live and work.
