David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Scotland, following a significant £15 million investment. The new facility, which opened its doors this month, is expected to create over 80 permanent jobs and provide a comprehensive range of fitness and leisure services to the growing local community.
The Shawfair club marks the company's 104th location in the United Kingdom and is designed to cater to families and individuals with state-of-the-art equipment and a wide variety of activities. The development is a key part of the expanding infrastructure in the Shawfair and Dalkeith area, reflecting growing demand for premium wellness amenities.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has invested £15 million in a new health and wellness facility in Shawfair, Scotland.
- The new club has created more than 80 full-time and part-time jobs in the local area.
- Facilities include a 100-station gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis and padel courts, and a luxury spa.
- The development aims to serve the expanding communities of Shawfair, Dalkeith, and Midlothian.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The construction and launch of the Shawfair David Lloyd Club represent one of the most substantial private investments in the region's leisure sector in recent years. The £15 million project underscores the company's confidence in the economic growth of Midlothian and its commitment to providing high-quality wellness facilities outside of major city centers.
Local officials have welcomed the development, highlighting its positive impact on employment and its role in enhancing the quality of life for residents. The creation of over 80 jobs spans various roles, including fitness instruction, hospitality, facility management, and administration.
The Growing Shawfair Community
Shawfair is one of Scotland's most ambitious new town developments, located southeast of Edinburgh. The master plan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over the next two decades. The arrival of major brands like David Lloyd is seen as a crucial step in establishing Shawfair as a fully-serviced, desirable place to live.
Designed for Modern Lifestyles
The new club is structured to accommodate a wide range of fitness and relaxation needs. Management has emphasized a family-friendly environment that also caters to individual professionals seeking a premium wellness experience. The design incorporates modern architectural elements with a focus on natural light and spacious, open-plan areas.
According to a company spokesperson, the layout and services were planned based on extensive market research into what local residents value most in a health club. This includes flexible spaces that can be used for both work and socializing, alongside traditional fitness zones.
Extensive Facilities and Services
The Shawfair location boasts an impressive array of amenities designed to meet diverse fitness goals and preferences. The club aims to be a comprehensive destination for health, sport, and relaxation, providing members with an all-inclusive experience.
By the Numbers
- Total Investment: £15 million
- Jobs Created: 80+
- Gym Area: 10,000 sq ft
- Indoor Pool: 25 meters
- Outdoor Pool: 20 meters
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
- Padel Courts: 3
State-of-the-Art Fitness Equipment
At the heart of the club is a 10,000-square-foot gymnasium equipped with the latest technology. The gym floor is divided into specialized zones to support different training styles.
- Cardio Zone: Features a wide selection of treadmills, cross-trainers, and stationary bikes with integrated entertainment systems.
- Strength and Conditioning: Includes a large free weights area, resistance machines, and functional training rigs.
- Group Fitness Studios: Three dedicated studios host over 100 classes per week, including high-energy options like BLAZE, meditative yoga, and cycling classes.
The club also offers personal training services, with certified coaches available to create customized fitness plans for members.
Racquet Sports and Swimming Pools
True to its heritage, the David Lloyd Club in Shawfair places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. The facility includes three indoor and two outdoor tennis courts, all built to championship standards. Additionally, it features three dedicated padel courts, catering to the rapidly growing popularity of the sport.
"Our goal was to create a facility that not only offers the best fitness equipment but also builds a sense of community. The Clubroom and outdoor terrace are central to this vision, providing a space for members to connect after a workout or while their children are in coaching sessions."
Swimming facilities are a major highlight, with both indoor and outdoor options. A 25-meter indoor pool is available for lane swimming and aqua-aerobics classes, while a heated 20-meter outdoor pool allows for year-round swimming. A separate, shallower indoor pool is designated for children's swimming lessons and family splash time.
Focus on Wellness and Family
Beyond physical fitness, the Shawfair club is designed to promote overall well-being and provide a welcoming environment for families. The inclusion of a luxury spa and dedicated family areas is a key part of this strategy.
The Spa Retreat
A significant portion of the facility is dedicated to the Spa Retreat, an area designed for relaxation and recovery. This adults-only section offers a range of hydrotherapy experiences.
Spa features include:
- Himalayan salt sauna
- Eucalyptus steam room
- Ice fountain
- Hydrotherapy pool
- Heated relaxation beds
The spa provides a quiet sanctuary for members to de-stress and is intended to be a major draw for those seeking a premium wellness experience.
Family-Oriented Amenities
David Lloyd Clubs has built its brand on being family-friendly, and the Shawfair location is no exception. The club offers a comprehensive DL Kids program with activities scheduled throughout the week for children aged 3 months to 16 years. These activities are aligned with adult class schedules to allow parents to work out simultaneously.
A dedicated soft-play area, an outdoor playground, and specialized coaching for tennis and swimming are also available. The Clubroom restaurant offers a family-friendly menu and a relaxed dining atmosphere, further positioning the club as a destination for the entire family.
Impact on the Local Economy and Community
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is a significant milestone for the Shawfair development. It is expected to act as an 'anchor' establishment, attracting further commercial investment and increasing the appeal of the area for prospective homebuyers.
The creation of 80 jobs provides a direct economic boost, and the club is expected to indirectly support local suppliers and service providers. The facility also addresses a recognized need for more high-quality leisure amenities in the Midlothian area, which has seen rapid population growth in recent years.
Community leaders hope the club will become a social hub, fostering connections among new and existing residents. By providing a wide range of activities for all ages, the facility aims to support a healthy and active lifestyle for the entire community.