David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health, wellness, and racquets club in Shawfair, Midlothian, following a £15 million investment. The new facility is expected to create approximately 80 new jobs and provide a wide range of premium leisure amenities to the growing local community.
Key Takeaways
- A new David Lloyd Club has opened in Shawfair, representing a £15 million investment in the area.
- The facility has created around 80 full-time and part-time jobs in various roles.
- Amenities include a state-of-the-art gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a luxury spa, and extensive family-focused areas.
- The club aims to serve the rapidly expanding residential communities in Shawfair and the wider Midlothian region.
A Significant Investment in Community Wellness
The opening of the Shawfair club marks a significant expansion for the David Lloyd Leisure group. The £15 million development underscores the company's confidence in the area, which is currently one of Scotland's largest urban expansion projects. The facility aims to become a central hub for health and social activities for local residents.
Construction on the site began over 18 months ago, transforming a vacant plot into a modern leisure complex. Company officials stated that the project was designed to meet the increasing demand for high-quality wellness services outside of major city centers.
Shawfair's Growing Community
Shawfair is a new town development located southeast of Edinburgh. The masterplan includes the construction of 4,000 new homes, schools, and commercial spaces over the next two decades, making it a strategic location for new service-based businesses like David Lloyd Clubs.
Inside the New Shawfair Facility
The new club offers a comprehensive range of facilities designed for individuals and families. The company has focused on creating distinct zones to cater to different member needs, from intense workouts to relaxation and family time.
Advanced Fitness and Training Areas
The centerpiece of the club is its spacious, state-of-the-art gymnasium. It is equipped with the latest fitness technology, including a variety of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and a dedicated functional fitness zone. Members have access to personal trainers and a schedule of over 100 weekly group exercise classes, such as yoga, Pilates, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Facility at a Glance
- Total Investment: £15 million
- Jobs Created: Approximately 80
- Gym Size: 10,000 sq ft
- Swimming Pools: 1 indoor (25m), 1 outdoor (20m)
- Tennis Courts: 3 indoor, 2 outdoor
Swimming Pools and Spa Retreat
A key attraction is the club's aquatic facilities. These include a 25-meter indoor swimming pool for lane swimming and lessons, alongside a shallower indoor family pool. An outdoor 20-meter heated pool allows for year-round swimming and relaxation.
Adjacent to the pools is the luxury Spa Retreat. This area is designed for relaxation and features a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and heated stone beds. Access to the spa is included in the standard membership, providing a premium wellness experience.
"Our goal was to create more than just a gym. We wanted to build a destination where families and individuals can spend quality time focusing on their physical and mental wellbeing," a company spokesperson stated during the launch event.
Family-Focused Amenities
David Lloyd Clubs has placed a strong emphasis on catering to families. The Shawfair location includes a dedicated DL Kids area offering activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years. The club also provides a soft play area, a family-friendly lounge, and coaching programs for tennis and swimming.
The integration of family services is a core part of the business model, allowing parents to use the gym or spa while their children participate in supervised activities.
Economic Impact and Local Reaction
The creation of approximately 80 jobs is a welcome development for the local economy. Roles range from fitness instructors and spa therapists to administrative staff and restaurant employees. The club has prioritized hiring from the local community where possible.
Local officials have expressed positive views on the new development, citing its role in enhancing the amenities available to the growing population of Shawfair. The club is seen as a valuable addition that will improve the quality of life for residents and potentially attract more people to the area.
The club's restaurant and lounge, known as the Clubroom, is also open to non-members, providing an additional social space for the community. It features an indoor dining area and an outdoor terrace, serving a menu of meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day.
With its comprehensive offerings, the new David Lloyd Club in Shawfair is positioned to become an integral part of the new town's social and wellness landscape.