David Lloyd Clubs has announced a £15.5 million investment to build a new health, wellness, and racquet club in Shawfair, Midlothian. The project is expected to create approximately 80 new full-time and part-time jobs and is scheduled to open in late 2024, providing a significant new amenity for the growing community.
The new facility will be located within the Shawfair town centre, a major development project situated southeast of Edinburgh. It aims to offer a comprehensive range of fitness and leisure options for families and individuals in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Investment: David Lloyd Clubs is investing £15.5 million in the new Shawfair facility.
- Job Creation: The new club is projected to create around 80 jobs in the Midlothian area.
- Location: The facility will be a central feature of the new Shawfair town centre development.
- Timeline: Construction is underway, with an anticipated opening in late 2024.
- Facilities: The club will include extensive gym space, swimming pools, racquet courts, a spa, and family-oriented areas.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The development represents a significant financial commitment to the Shawfair area. The £15.5 million investment underscores the company's confidence in the growth of the new town and the demand for premium wellness facilities. This project is one of several major investments David Lloyd Clubs is making across the UK.
A key benefit for the local economy will be the creation of new employment opportunities. The company estimates that around 80 positions will be available, spanning roles in management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and operations. Recruitment for these roles is expected to begin in the months leading up to the club's opening.
Comprehensive Facilities for Fitness and Leisure
The Shawfair club is designed to cater to a wide range of fitness and wellness needs. The plans detail a state-of-the-art facility with distinct zones for different activities, ensuring a comprehensive experience for all members.
What is Shawfair?
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most significant new town developments. Located between Edinburgh and the Midlothian countryside, the project plans to deliver 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over the next two decades. The inclusion of amenities like the David Lloyd Club is central to creating a fully-serviced, modern community.
State-of-the-Art Gymnasium and Studios
The heart of the club will be a large gymnasium equipped with over 100 stations. It will feature the latest fitness technology, including a variety of cardio and strength-training machines. According to the plans, the gym is designed with an open layout to accommodate different workout styles.
In addition to the main gym floor, the club will house four dedicated group exercise studios. These include:
- A High Energy Studio for fast-paced classes like HIIT and aerobics.
- A Mind & Body Studio for yoga, Pilates, and other wellness-focused practices.
- A Cyclone Studio for immersive group cycling classes.
- A fourth studio for other specialized group fitness programs.
Aquatic and Spa Amenities
The facility will feature extensive aquatic options. A 25-meter indoor swimming pool will be available for lane swimming and lessons, complemented by a separate, warmer family pool. An outdoor swimming pool is also planned, providing a unique leisure space during warmer months.
For relaxation and recovery, a luxury spa will be a central component of the club. The spa area is set to include a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated beds, offering a tranquil environment for members to unwind.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Family Activities
David Lloyd Clubs has a strong heritage in racquet sports, and the Shawfair location will continue this tradition. The plans include several tennis courts, padel tennis courts, and badminton courts. Padel tennis, a rapidly growing sport, is a key feature intended to attract new players.
"We are thrilled to bring a world-class health and wellness facility to the new town of Shawfair. Our goal is to create a true community hub where families can spend quality time together, focusing on their physical and mental wellbeing."
The club is also designed with families in mind. Dedicated kids' facilities will offer a range of activities and coaching programs, including swimming and tennis lessons. A Clubroom and restaurant will provide a social space for members to eat, work, and relax, further positioning the club as a central part of community life in Shawfair.
Supporting the Growth of a New Town
The new David Lloyd Club is an integral part of the master plan for Shawfair. Developers see the club as a cornerstone amenity that will enhance the quality of life for new residents and attract more people to the area.
Nick Waugh, a director for Shawfair LLP, stated that the club is a "fantastic addition" to the community. He emphasized that high-quality leisure facilities are essential for establishing a vibrant and sustainable town. The club's presence is expected to have a positive impact on property values and the overall appeal of the development.
Construction is progressing on schedule, and the club's management team is focused on a successful launch in late 2024. The new facility represents a blend of modern fitness technology, luxury amenities, and community-focused design, aiming to set a new standard for health and wellness in the region.