David Lloyd Leisure has confirmed plans to open a new £15 million health, spa, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian. The development is expected to create over 80 jobs and will serve the growing community with a comprehensive range of wellness and fitness facilities when it opens in late 2024.
The new club represents a significant investment in the region's leisure infrastructure, providing state-of-the-art amenities for families, individuals, and corporate members. It is positioned as a central hub for the Shawfair community, which is undergoing substantial residential and commercial expansion.
Key Takeaways
- Investment: David Lloyd Leisure is investing £15 million into the new Shawfair facility.
- Job Creation: The new club is projected to create more than 80 full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- Key Facilities: The site will include indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa, multiple racquet courts including Padel, a state-of-the-art gym, and family-focused areas.
- Location: The club is strategically located to serve the new town of Shawfair and surrounding Midlothian communities.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The construction of the new David Lloyd Club in Shawfair marks one of the most significant private investments in the area's leisure sector in recent years. The £15 million project underscores the company's commitment to expanding its presence in Scotland and providing premium wellness facilities to growing communities.
According to the company, the investment covers the entire construction, outfitting, and landscaping of the multi-acre site. The facility is designed to meet high standards of energy efficiency and sustainability, incorporating modern building techniques and materials to minimize its environmental footprint.
The Growing Shawfair Community
Shawfair is a new town development located southeast of Edinburgh. The masterplan for the area includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over the next two decades. The addition of a major leisure facility like the David Lloyd Club is a key part of developing the social infrastructure needed to support the new population.
The development is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to Midlothian. The creation of over 80 jobs will span various roles, including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and facility maintenance. Local suppliers and contractors have also been involved during the construction phase, further boosting the regional economy.
Comprehensive Facilities for All Ages
The Shawfair club is designed to cater to a wide range of fitness and wellness needs, with distinct zones for different activities. The facility will offer a comprehensive experience aimed at families, fitness enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation.
State-of-the-Art Fitness and Gym
The centerpiece of the club will be its large, modern gymnasium. The gym floor will be divided into specialized zones, including areas for cardio, free weights, and functional training. It will feature the latest equipment from leading fitness technology brands, ensuring members have access to a wide variety of workout options.
In addition to the main gym, there will be three dedicated group exercise studios:
- Mind & Body Studio: A calm space designed for classes such as yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- High Energy Studio: For fast-paced classes like HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) and aerobics.
- Cycle Hub: A dedicated indoor cycling studio with immersive lighting and sound systems.
A team of qualified personal trainers will be available to provide customized fitness plans and one-on-one coaching for members.
Focus on Racquet Sports
The new club will feature extensive racquet facilities, including four indoor tennis courts, four badminton courts, and two squash courts. Recognizing the growing popularity of Padel tennis, the facility will also include three dedicated Padel courts, making it a major hub for the sport in the region.
Luxury Spa and Swimming Facilities
A significant portion of the club is dedicated to relaxation and aquatics. The Spa Retreat is designed as a premium wellness destination, offering a tranquil environment for members to unwind.
Features of the Spa Retreat include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Multiple saunas and steam rooms
- An outdoor spa garden with relaxation zones
- Heated loungers and a deep relaxation room
- Professional treatment rooms offering a range of therapies
The club will also boast both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The 25-meter indoor pool will be used for lane swimming, aqua aerobics classes, and family swim sessions. The 20-meter heated outdoor pool will allow for year-round swimming and will be surrounded by a sun terrace and loungers.
"Our goal is to create more than just a gym; we are building a community hub where families can spend quality time together, individuals can achieve their wellness goals, and everyone can feel welcome," said a spokesperson for David Lloyd Leisure.
Family-Oriented Services and Social Spaces
David Lloyd Clubs are known for their family-friendly approach, and the Shawfair location will be no exception. The club will feature a dedicated DL Kids facility, offering a wide range of activities for children aged 3 to 11. These activities are designed to be both fun and developmental, with sessions in sports, arts and crafts, and more. A crèche service will also be available for younger children, allowing parents to use the club's facilities.
The social heart of the club will be the Clubroom, a spacious café, bar, and restaurant area. It will serve a menu of fresh, healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. The Clubroom is designed as a versatile space, featuring a business lounge area with complimentary Wi-Fi for members who wish to work remotely, as well as a designated family zone.
This focus on social interaction is a core part of the David Lloyd model. The Clubroom is intended to be a place where members can connect with friends, relax after a workout, or spend time with their families in a comfortable setting.