David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health and wellness facility in Shawfair, Midlothian, representing a significant investment in the region's leisure infrastructure. The new club, which welcomed its first members this week, is the company's 103rd location in the United Kingdom and aims to provide comprehensive fitness and relaxation services to the growing local community.
The development is a key part of the Shawfair town masterplan, a joint initiative by Midlothian Council and Shawfair LLP. The club is expected to create over 80 full-time and part-time jobs, contributing to local employment and economic activity in the area situated southeast of Edinburgh.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new health and wellness centre in Shawfair, Midlothian.
- The facility is the 103rd David Lloyd Club in the UK and the company's second in the Edinburgh area.
- The project is expected to generate more than 80 local jobs.
- Features include a 100-station gym, multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and a luxury spa.
- The club is a central component of the larger Shawfair town development plan.
A Major Investment in Community Wellness
The new Shawfair club is one of the largest investments David Lloyd Leisure has made in a new facility in recent years. While the exact investment figure has not been publicly disclosed, similar developments typically range from £10 million to £15 million. This commitment underscores the company's confidence in the growth potential of the Shawfair area.
The facility spans a large, purpose-built site designed to cater to individuals and families. According to company representatives, the goal was to create a premium destination that integrates fitness, relaxation, and social activities under one roof. The club's opening is timed to serve the expanding population of Shawfair, which is planned to include 4,000 new homes.
The Growing Shawfair Community
Shawfair is a significant urban expansion project located between Edinburgh and Dalkeith. The masterplan includes not only thousands of homes but also new schools, commercial spaces, and community facilities. The inclusion of a major leisure centre like David Lloyd was a strategic part of making the new town a self-sufficient and attractive place to live.
Extensive Facilities and Member Services
The Shawfair club offers a wide array of amenities designed to meet diverse fitness and lifestyle needs. The management team has highlighted several key features that set the facility apart.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Equipment
The centrepiece of the club is its expansive gymnasium, which houses over 100 stations of modern fitness equipment. This includes a mix of cardio machines, resistance training equipment, and a large free-weights area. The gym is designed with an open-plan layout to provide a spacious and motivating environment for members.
In addition to the main gym floor, there are three dedicated group exercise studios. These will host a variety of classes, including:
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Yoga and Pilates
- Group cycling (spin classes)
- Dance-based fitness classes
The club plans to offer more than 100 group classes per week, all led by certified instructors.
Aquatic and Racquet Sports
A significant portion of the facility is dedicated to swimming and racquet sports. It features a 25-metre indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, as well as a shallower indoor family pool. An outdoor heated pool is also available, allowing for year-round swimming.
Did You Know?
The Shawfair club includes three Padel tennis courts. Padel is a rapidly growing racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. This inclusion reflects the increasing demand for new and social sports experiences in the UK.
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the club offers three indoor tennis courts and three outdoor courts. It also includes facilities for badminton and the increasingly popular Padel tennis, catering to a broad range of players from beginners to experienced competitors.
Focus on Wellness and Family
Beyond traditional fitness, the David Lloyd Shawfair club places a strong emphasis on holistic wellness and family-oriented services. The luxury spa, branded as the 'Spa Retreat,' is a key component of this approach.
"Our aim is to provide more than just a gym. We want to be a destination where families can spend quality time together and individuals can focus on their overall well-being. The Spa Retreat and our family facilities are central to that vision," a company spokesperson stated during the launch event.
The spa facilities include a hydro-pool, sauna, steam room, and heated relaxation beds. These amenities are designed to provide members with a space for recovery and stress relief. The club also features a dedicated business lounge with complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing members to work remotely in a comfortable setting.
Family-Friendly Environment
The club is structured to be welcoming for all ages. It includes a DL Kids club that offers supervised activities for children, allowing parents to use the facilities. A soft-play area and an outdoor playground are also part of the family-centric design. The on-site 'Clubroom' café and restaurant provides a social hub for members to eat, drink, and socialize.
Economic and Community Impact
The opening of the David Lloyd club is a significant milestone for the Shawfair development. Local officials have welcomed the project for its positive economic contributions, particularly the creation of over 80 jobs in various roles, including fitness instruction, hospitality, and facility management.
Nick Waugh, a director at Shawfair LLP, commented on the opening. He stated, "The arrival of David Lloyd Clubs is a major step forward for Shawfair. It provides a first-class leisure facility for the growing number of residents and the wider Midlothian community, reinforcing our commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable new town."
The club is expected to attract members from Shawfair, Dalkeith, and surrounding areas, establishing itself as a central leisure hub for the region. Its presence is also anticipated to increase the appeal of Shawfair for prospective homebuyers, further driving the development of the new community.