David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a significant £15 million investment. The new facility, which is the company's 104th club in the UK, is expected to create over 100 local jobs and provide a wide range of premium amenities for families and individuals in the rapidly growing community.
The state-of-the-art club is designed to be a comprehensive destination for fitness, relaxation, and socializing, featuring extensive gym facilities, multiple swimming pools, a luxury spa, and numerous racquet courts. The opening marks a major addition to the local infrastructure, catering to the increasing demand for high-quality leisure services in the area.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, Midlothian, representing a £15 million investment.
- The facility is projected to create more than 100 full-time and part-time jobs in the local community.
- Key features include a 10,000 sq ft gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury Spa Garden, and extensive racquet sports facilities.
- The club is designed as a family-friendly destination with dedicated kids' zones, a creche, and a business hub for remote working.
A Major Investment in Community Infrastructure
The development of the Shawfair David Lloyd Club represents one of the largest private investments in leisure facilities in the region in recent years. The £15 million project was constructed over an 18-month period, transforming a previously undeveloped site into a modern wellness hub.
According to company representatives, the investment reflects confidence in the economic growth of Shawfair and the surrounding Midlothian area. The creation of over 100 new jobs spans various roles, including fitness coaching, hospitality, spa therapy, and facility management, providing a significant boost to local employment.
"We are incredibly proud to open our doors in Shawfair. This club is more than just a gym; it's a community space designed to support the health and wellbeing of everyone, from young families to active retirees. Our goal is to provide a premium experience and a welcoming environment for all our members."
The facility's strategic location within the Shawfair masterplan is intended to serve thousands of new homes being built in the area, positioning the club as a central pillar of the new town's social and recreational life.
Inside the State-of-the-Art Facility
The new David Lloyd Club in Shawfair offers an extensive range of amenities designed to cater to diverse fitness levels and lifestyle needs. The facility is structured to provide distinct zones for exercise, relaxation, family activities, and socializing.
Who Are David Lloyd Clubs?
Founded in 1982, David Lloyd Leisure is a leading health, sport, and leisure group in the UK and Europe. The company operates over 130 clubs and is known for its focus on racquet sports, family-friendly environments, and premium-quality facilities that combine fitness with social and relaxation spaces.
Fitness and Training Areas
At the heart of the club is a 10,000 square foot gymnasium, which is equipped with the latest technology from leading fitness brands. The gym floor is divided into specialized zones, including areas for cardio, free weights, functional training, and strength conditioning.
In addition to the main gym, the club features several dedicated fitness studios:
- Mind & Body Studio: A calm space for classes such as yoga, Pilates, and meditation.
- High-Intensity Studio: Designed for high-energy group classes like BLAZE, a signature HIIT workout.
- Cycle Hub: A state-of-the-art indoor cycling studio featuring immersive lighting and sound systems.
Members have access to a team of personal trainers and can utilize the David Lloyd Clubs mobile app to book classes and track their fitness progress.
Aquatic and Spa Amenities
A key attraction of the new facility is its comprehensive aquatic and spa offering. The club features both a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool, allowing for year-round swimming. The indoor area also includes a shallower children's pool for families.
The club's luxury Spa Garden is a standout feature, providing an adults-only sanctuary for relaxation. This area includes:
- An outdoor hydrotherapy pool
- A traditional Finnish sauna
- A crystal steam room
- Deep relaxation beds and a private garden area
The spa is designed to offer a tranquil escape, promoting mental and physical recovery after a workout or as a standalone wellness experience.
Shawfair Club by the Numbers
- Total Investment: £15 million
- Jobs Created: 100+
- Gym Size: 10,000 sq ft
- Swimming Pools: 3 (indoor, outdoor, kids')
- Tennis Courts: 5 (3 indoor, 2 outdoor)
- Group Exercise Classes per Week: Over 130
Racquet Sports and Family Spaces
Staying true to its heritage, the Shawfair club places a strong emphasis on racquet sports. It boasts three indoor and two outdoor tennis courts with all-weather surfaces. Additionally, there are courts for badminton and squash, with coaching programs available for all ages and skill levels.
The club is also designed with families in mind. A dedicated kids' club offers a range of supervised activities, and a creche is available for younger children. The central 'Clubroom' serves as a social hub, with a restaurant and café offering healthy meals, snacks, and drinks. This space also includes an adults-only area and a business hub with workstations and complimentary Wi-Fi for members who wish to work remotely.
Community Integration and Future Outlook
The opening of the David Lloyd Club is seen as a milestone for the Shawfair development, a joint venture between Mactaggart & Mickel and Buccleuch Property. The town is planned to include 4,000 homes, new schools, and community facilities, and the club is one of the first major commercial amenities to be completed.
Local officials have welcomed the investment, highlighting its role in creating a vibrant and sustainable community. The facility is expected to attract members from across Midlothian and south Edinburgh, further establishing Shawfair as a desirable place to live.
As members begin to use the facilities, the club's management plans to roll out a full schedule of social events, tournaments, and community activities. The long-term vision is for the club to become an integral part of the local fabric, promoting health, wellness, and social connection for decades to come.