David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £14 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's third in Scotland, is expected to create over 80 full-time and part-time jobs and provide a significant boost to the local economy.
The state-of-the-art club is situated within the Shawfair Business Park, a new commercial hub developed by Buccleuch Property. It aims to serve the growing communities of Shawfair, Dalkeith, and the wider Midlothian area with a comprehensive range of fitness and leisure amenities for all ages.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £14 million in a new club in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility is the 104th David Lloyd Club in the UK and the third in Scotland.
- Over 80 new jobs have been created, supporting the local economy.
- The club features extensive fitness facilities, swimming pools, spa amenities, and racquet sports courts.
- It is located in the Shawfair Business Park, part of a major residential and commercial development.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The opening of the Shawfair club marks a significant expansion for David Lloyd Clubs in Scotland. The facility joins existing locations in Glasgow and Aberdeen, extending the brand's reach to the Edinburgh city region. The company stated that the £14 million investment reflects its confidence in the area's growth and its commitment to providing premium wellness services.
The new club is designed to be a comprehensive destination for families and individuals. It spans a large area, incorporating a wide variety of health and fitness options under one roof. Management has emphasized its role as a community hub, offering social spaces alongside its athletic facilities.
Creation of Local Employment Opportunities
A key benefit of the new development is the creation of more than 80 permanent jobs. These roles cover a range of positions, including management, fitness instruction, hospitality, and maintenance. The recruitment drive focused on hiring from the local Midlothian community, providing a welcome source of employment for the region.
According to local officials, this level of job creation is a positive development for Shawfair, which is one of Scotland's largest urban expansion projects. The introduction of a major employer like David Lloyd Clubs contributes to the long-term economic sustainability of the new town.
Facility by the Numbers
- Investment: £14 million
- Jobs Created: Over 80
- Indoor Swimming Pool: 20 metres
- Outdoor Swimming Pool: 25 metres
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor, 3 outdoor
- Padel Courts: 3
- Group Exercise Studios: 4
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Amenities
The Shawfair club boasts an impressive array of modern facilities designed to cater to diverse fitness and relaxation needs. The centerpiece of the fitness area is a 1,000-square-metre gym equipped with the latest technology from Technogym and a large free-weights area.
For swimmers, the club offers both indoor and outdoor options. A 20-metre indoor pool and a 25-metre heated outdoor pool provide year-round opportunities for lane swimming and family activities. The outdoor pool area is complemented by a patio and sun loungers for relaxation during warmer months.
"We are thrilled to finally open our doors and welcome our first members to this fantastic new club. The level of investment and the quality of the facilities are second to none, and we are confident that David Lloyd Shawfair will become a much-loved destination for local families to prioritise their health and wellness."
The club also features four dedicated group exercise studios. These spaces will host a packed schedule of classes, including the brand's signature BLAZE and IGN1TE high-intensity workouts, as well as cycling, yoga, and Pilates sessions.
Focus on Racquet Sports and Relaxation
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, along with three Padel courts. Padel, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is a key new offering for the area.
Beyond physical activity, the club provides extensive options for relaxation and recovery. The spa facilities include a Himalayan salt sauna, a citrus steam room, a hydrotherapy pool, and a heated outdoor spa garden. These amenities are designed to offer a complete wellness experience, allowing members to de-stress and rejuvenate.
What is Shawfair?
Shawfair is a major new town development located southeast of Edinburgh. The masterplan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and community facilities. Shawfair Business Park, where the David Lloyd Club is located, is intended to be the primary commercial and employment centre for the new community, supported by a dedicated railway station on the Borders Railway line.
A Hub for Families and Social Life
David Lloyd Clubs has designed the Shawfair location to be explicitly family-friendly. The club includes dedicated 'DL Kids' facilities that will run a full program of activities for children, from sports coaching to arts and crafts. This allows parents to use the gym or attend classes while their children are supervised.
The social aspect is also a core part of the club's design. A spacious 'Clubroom' provides a comfortable environment for members to work, relax, or socialise. It features an indoor and outdoor dining area, a business hub, and a soft-play frame for younger children. This integrated approach aims to create a community feel, encouraging members to spend extended time at the facility.
Stacey Parsons, the club's General Manager, highlighted this community focus. She noted that the club is intended to be more than just a gym, but a place where families can spend quality time together and connect with other members of the community.
The club's opening is seen as a major milestone for the Shawfair development, adding a premium leisure anchor to the growing town and enhancing its appeal for current and future residents.