David Lloyd Leisure has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £30 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's 104th club in the UK, is expected to create approximately 100 new jobs and provide extensive leisure amenities to the local community.
The state-of-the-art club occupies a prominent site at Shawfair Park, a new commercial and retail destination adjacent to the Shawfair railway station. It aims to serve as a central hub for health and fitness for residents in the growing Shawfair development and surrounding areas.
Key Takeaways
- A new £30 million David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility is expected to create around 100 full-time and part-time jobs.
- Features include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a large gym, racquet courts, a spa, and family-friendly areas.
- The club is part of the broader Shawfair development, which plans to build 4,000 new homes.
Facility Features and Amenities
The new David Lloyd Club in Shawfair offers a comprehensive range of facilities designed for individuals and families. The development spans a significant area, incorporating both indoor and outdoor spaces to cater to various fitness and relaxation needs.
Health and Fitness Spaces
At the core of the club is a large, modern gymnasium equipped with the latest fitness technology. According to the company, the gym features distinct zones for different workout styles, including areas for cardio, strength training, and functional fitness. Members have access to a wide array of equipment from leading manufacturers.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club includes three dedicated group exercise studios. These studios will host a variety of classes, such as yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). A specialized cycling studio is also part of the offering, providing immersive indoor cycling experiences.
By the Numbers
- Investment: £30 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 100
- UK Clubs: This is the 104th David Lloyd Club in the UK
- Swimming Pools: A 25m indoor pool and a 20m outdoor pool
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor and 3 outdoor courts
Aquatic and Spa Facilities
A major highlight of the new facility is its extensive aquatic area. The club features a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The outdoor area is complemented by a terrace with sun loungers, creating a resort-like atmosphere during warmer months.
For relaxation and recovery, the club includes a luxury spa. The spa facilities, known as the Spa Retreat, provide a quiet zone for adults. It features a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds. This area is designed to offer a tranquil escape for members to unwind.
Racquet Sports and Family Offerings
Staying true to its heritage, the new David Lloyd Club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facility includes three indoor and three outdoor tennis courts, catering to players of all skill levels. The club will also offer professional coaching programs for both adults and children.
Beyond tennis, the club provides facilities for other racquet sports, including badminton and squash courts. This diverse offering aims to attract a wide range of sports enthusiasts from the local community.
The Shawfair Development
The David Lloyd Club is an anchor tenant in the Shawfair development, a major urban expansion project in Midlothian. Overseen by Shawfair LLP, the plan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, a new town center, schools, and commercial spaces. The club's opening marks a significant milestone in establishing the area as a fully-serviced community.
Dedicated Family Spaces
The club has been designed with families in mind. A dedicated kids' club area offers supervised activities, arts and crafts, and sports programs for younger members. This allows parents to use the gym or spa facilities while their children are engaged in safe and fun activities.
There is also a family-friendly café and restaurant area, known as the Clubroom. It serves as a social space for members to eat, work, or relax. The menu offers a range of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks for all ages.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a significant economic event for the Shawfair area. The creation of approximately 100 new jobs provides a considerable boost to local employment. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative and hospitality staff.
"We are thrilled to bring our premier health and wellness facilities to the Shawfair community. This £30 million investment underscores our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for our members and contributing positively to the local economy."
– A spokesperson for David Lloyd Leisure
Local officials have welcomed the investment, noting its role in enhancing the amenities available to the growing population of Shawfair and Midlothian. The club is expected to attract new residents to the area and support the overall vision of Shawfair as a vibrant and desirable place to live.
Supporting a Healthy Lifestyle
The facility's opening aligns with a broader public health focus on promoting active lifestyles. By providing high-quality fitness options, the club aims to encourage community participation in regular physical activity. The diverse range of activities, from swimming to yoga, ensures there are options suitable for different age groups and fitness levels.
The club's management has stated its intention to build strong community ties. This includes plans to partner with local schools and organizations to promote health and wellness initiatives. These partnerships could involve offering taster sessions or hosting community sports events.
Membership and Accessibility
Membership for the new club is now open, with various packages available for individuals, couples, and families. The pricing structure is designed to reflect the premium nature of the facilities and services offered.
The club is located at Shawfair Park, which offers ample parking and is situated next to the Shawfair railway station on the Borders Railway line. This location provides convenient access for residents of Shawfair as well as those commuting from Edinburgh and the surrounding Midlothian and East Lothian areas.
The opening represents a new chapter for leisure in the region, providing a modern and comprehensive facility that aims to become a cornerstone of the new Shawfair community for years to come.