David Lloyd Leisure has confirmed plans to open a new state-of-the-art health and wellness club in Shawfair, Midlothian, representing a significant £15 million investment in the rapidly growing community. The development is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and provide a comprehensive range of fitness, leisure, and family-oriented facilities upon its scheduled opening in late 2025.
The new club will be situated within the Shawfair town centre development, serving residents of the new housing schemes and surrounding areas. This move marks a major addition to the local infrastructure, aiming to establish a central hub for health, relaxation, and social activities.
Key Takeaways
- Major Investment: David Lloyd Leisure is investing £15 million into the new Shawfair facility.
- Job Creation: The project is expected to generate around 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities in the local area.
- Extensive Facilities: The club will feature indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, a large gym, tennis courts, and dedicated family zones.
- Strategic Location: The new club will be a key amenity in the master-planned Shawfair town centre, supporting the growing residential community.
A Significant Boost for the Shawfair Community
The announcement of the new David Lloyd Club is a landmark development for Shawfair, a master-planned community located southeast of Edinburgh. The £15 million investment underscores the area's growth and its attractiveness for premium leisure brands. Construction is slated to begin in early 2025, with a target completion date in the fourth quarter of the same year.
According to company representatives, the club is designed to cater to a wide demographic, from individuals and couples to families. The creation of 80 new jobs will provide a notable boost to the local economy, offering roles in management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and facility maintenance.
"We are thrilled to bring a David Lloyd Club to Shawfair. This is a thriving, modern community, and our investment reflects our confidence in the area's future. Our goal is to provide a premium destination where families and individuals can prioritise their health and wellbeing together."
Strategic Development and Local Impact
The club's location within the planned town centre is strategic, placing it at the heart of the community. It will join other planned amenities, including retail spaces, a health centre, and community facilities, contributing to the vision of Shawfair as a self-sufficient and desirable place to live. Local officials have welcomed the investment as a positive step for the region.
About Shawfair Development
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant new town developments. The master plan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over a 20-year period. The development is designed around sustainability and community, with extensive green spaces and excellent transport links, including its own railway station on the Borders Railway line.
Inside the New Health and Wellness Facility
The Shawfair David Lloyd Club will be built to the company's latest design standards, incorporating modern architecture and high-end finishes. The facility will offer a comprehensive suite of amenities aimed at promoting physical and mental wellness.
Core Fitness and Swimming Areas
The heart of the club will be its extensive fitness and aquatic facilities. Members will have access to:
- A spacious, state-of-the-art gymnasium with dedicated zones for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness.
- Multiple fitness studios offering a diverse timetable of classes, including yoga, Pilates, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and cycling.
- A 25-metre indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons.
- A heated 20-metre outdoor swimming pool, allowing for year-round use.
The gym floor is expected to feature the latest equipment from leading manufacturers, providing a premium workout experience. Certified personal trainers will also be available to provide customised fitness programs and guidance.
Focus on Racquet Sports
The club will feature a strong emphasis on racquet sports, a hallmark of the David Lloyd brand. The plans include three indoor tennis courts and three outdoor courts, all built to championship standards. Additionally, the facility will include two Padel tennis courts, catering to the fast-growing popularity of the sport.
Relaxation and Spa Facilities
A key feature of the new club will be its luxurious spa area, designed as a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Known as the Spa Retreat, it will be an adult-only space offering a range of hydrotherapy and heat experiences.
The spa will include a hydrotherapy pool, a Himalayan salt sauna, a steam room, an ice fountain, and heated relaxation beds. This premium offering is designed to provide members with a complete wellness journey, moving beyond physical fitness to encompass mental relaxation and recovery.
A Family-Friendly Destination
David Lloyd Clubs are known for their family-centric approach, and the Shawfair location will be no exception. The design includes dedicated areas and programs for children, making it an attractive destination for families in the community.
DL Kids and Childcare Services
The club will feature a DL Kids facility, offering a wide range of supervised activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years. These activities are designed to be both fun and developmental, with programs covering sports, arts and crafts, and educational play. A creche service will also be available, allowing parents to use the club's facilities with peace of mind.
Furthermore, the club will run structured coaching programs for children in swimming and tennis. These programs are designed to build skills and confidence from a young age, with progressive levels that cater to different abilities.
Clubroom and Social Hub
At the centre of the club will be the Clubroom, a spacious cafe, bar, and restaurant area. This space is designed to be a social hub where members can work, relax, and dine. It will feature a dedicated family zone and an adults-only business area with complimentary Wi-Fi.
The menu will offer a range of healthy and balanced meals, snacks, and drinks, supporting the club's overall focus on wellness. The Clubroom will serve as a versatile space for members to connect with others, creating a strong sense of community within the facility.