David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £12 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's third in Scotland, has created approximately 80 new full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
The club is designed to be a premium destination for families and individuals, offering a wide range of fitness and leisure activities. Its opening marks a significant addition to the rapidly developing Shawfair community, providing extensive amenities previously unavailable in the immediate vicinity.
Key Takeaways
- A new £12 million David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The investment has generated around 80 new jobs for the local economy.
- The facility includes state-of-the-art gym equipment, swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- It is positioned as a family-oriented club with dedicated spaces for children and co-working areas for adults.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The construction and launch of the Shawfair club represent a substantial commitment by David Lloyd Clubs to expand its presence in Scotland. The £12 million project was developed to meet the growing demand for premium health and wellness facilities in the expanding residential areas south of Edinburgh.
The club is strategically located to serve the new town of Shawfair and surrounding communities. Development in the area is projected to include 4,000 new homes, making the club a central hub for new and existing residents.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Members of the new club will have access to a comprehensive suite of modern equipment and amenities. The centerpiece is a 10,000 square foot gymnasium, which features the latest technology from Technogym and an extensive free weights area.
Beyond the main gym, the facility offers a variety of specialized fitness zones. These include a dedicated group cycling studio, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) studio known as BLAZE, and a mind-and-body studio for yoga and Pilates. This diverse offering caters to a wide range of fitness preferences and goals.
Club Amenities at a Glance
- Swimming: A 20-meter indoor pool and a separate children's splash pool.
- Racquet Sports: 3 indoor tennis courts, 3 outdoor courts, and 2 Padel courts.
- Spa: A luxury spa retreat with a hydro pool, sauna, steam room, and heated beds.
- Family: A dedicated DL Kids area with activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years.
More Than Just a Gym
David Lloyd Clubs positions its locations as 'third places'—social environments away from home and work. The Shawfair club embodies this concept with extensive facilities designed for relaxation, work, and family time.
"We are thrilled to bring our world-class facilities to Shawfair," said Fraser Stewart, the newly appointed General Manager. "Our goal is to be more than just a gym; we want to be a community hub where families can spend quality time together, individuals can focus on their well-being, and professionals can find a space to work and unwind."
A Space for Work and Relaxation
A key feature of the club is its 'Clubroom,' a spacious indoor area with a dedicated business zone. This co-working space offers members a comfortable environment to work remotely, complete with high-speed internet and charging stations. An outdoor patio area provides an alternative setting for socializing or working during warmer months.
The club's food and beverage offerings are designed to complement the wellness focus, with a menu featuring fresh, healthy options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This allows members to easily transition from a workout to a meal or a work session without leaving the premises.
The Rise of Padel Tennis
The inclusion of two Padel courts reflects the sport's soaring popularity. Padel, a hybrid of tennis and squash, is one of the fastest-growing sports in Europe. It is known for being easy to learn and highly social, making it an attractive option for players of all ages and skill levels.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a significant boost for the local economy. The creation of approximately 80 jobs provides employment opportunities across various roles, including fitness instruction, hospitality, management, and maintenance.
Local officials have welcomed the investment as a positive development for the Shawfair community. The club not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also adds to the appeal of the area for prospective homebuyers and businesses.
The emphasis on family-friendly activities is particularly important for a new community like Shawfair, which is attracting many young families. The DL Kids program offers structured activities, coaching, and holiday clubs, providing a valuable resource for parents.
A Focus on Holistic Well-being
The club's design and programming reflect a modern approach to health that extends beyond physical fitness. The luxury spa, for instance, is intended as a sanctuary for mental relaxation and recovery. Facilities like the hydro pool, sauna, and steam room are integrated to support a holistic wellness journey.
This comprehensive approach ensures that members can address their physical, mental, and social well-being all in one location, reinforcing the club's role as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.